More new jobs will be created in graphic design through the year 2014 than in any other individual design field, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's good news, but it's countered by the fact that graphic design is still a competitive field. What can you do to stand out among the throngs of job seekers?
Securing a desirable job in graphic design, as with many competitive creative fields, involves marketing yourself effectively. Don't worry, it can be fun; view it as an opportunity to cultivate marketing and communication skills that will serve you throughout your career.
Marketing Tips
Portfolio--Start by looking at your portfolio, one of your most important assets as a job-seeking graphic designer. Make sure it contains your best work and is in a format that is easy to navigate. If you send samples on a disc, for example, make sure you also include hard copies. Also make sure your portfolio can comfortably fit in a large mailing envelop--a potential employer doesn't want the trouble of sorting through an oversized portfolio. Also notice the order of your samples. Does the flow complement the individual works or does the juxtaposition of some samples create an undesirable effect?
Cover Letters--Become an expert at writing cover letters--you'll likely be writing a lot of them. If you're new to writing cover letters, you can find helpful tips along with instructions on how to format a business letter at one of the several free cover letter tutorials. These tips should be helpful, but following them may not be enough to distinguish you from your competitors. You can stand out by telling a story that conveys what makes you an ideal candidate in a way that is engaging and original. It's important, however, to always maintain a professional tone.
Resume--Resume design is also important in marketing yourself. It's a great opportunity to show off your design skills. Invest in making your résumé easy to read, aesthetically pleasing, and professional looking. Avoid using colored paper or ink; do include white space and only the most essential information.
Job searches are always tough, but these tips will help you be more effective in your search and avoid some of the common pitfalls besetting many job seekers.
