General Discussions

#1 (permalink)

Hey There! I'm looking for some possibly life changing advice, so I'd greatly appreciate it if you could read my post and offer whatever thoughts you may have. Thanks in advance!

Let me give you a quick run down on my life.

I'm 20. After high-school I went to university for graphic design, but hating it, I dropped out after only the first year. For the next two years [to present], I've worked as a freelance web-designer. Now I'm thinking about the future. Freelance is unstable. I'd like to find work with a studio, but I have no idea how, where to begin, or whether I am qualified or skilled enough.

I'll link you to my portfolio so you can keep it in mind as you read the rest.
www.skywide.net


My question to you is: How does one go about finding their first full-time graphic design job?


I have no full-time working experience. My resume consists of a scattering of freelance positions with a variety of individuals, organizations, and a few running overflow agreements with some local studios. I do have a few strong references.

Is it generally accepted that studios/organizations only hire people who've completed university or college programs?

Perhaps I need to do some sort of internship?

Please take a look at my website and offer honest feedback. Do I even stand a chance? Is my portfolio varied enough? Is it what employers are looking for?

Really, whatever advice you have to give would probably be helpful.

I have little interest in going back to university to complete my design degree [citing reasons such as insane tuition costs, lack of actual learning.], but it is an option...

Thanks,
Blake

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#2 (permalink)

Blake you're asking the age old question that just about everyone looking for their first job asks. Know that you're in good company.

There's usually something of a catch22 in that first job. Employers wanting experience, but how do you get experience without the job. The first thing to do is always keep your eyes open. Tell everyone you know what kind of job you're looking for. Get the word out and keep paying attention to all job listings.

I'm not sure if the graphic design industry require a college degree. I suspect not and would think most employers will be more interested in your talent than a degree.

Your portfolio looks good, however, it's all web related. You should probably put together a print portfolio as well. The usual bound book that you can carry around with you to interviews.

One thing I did many years ago when I was looking for an engineering job was I purchased a book that listed every engineering firm in the country along with their revenue for the year before and the types of engineering they specifically practiced. I went through the list to find the companies I wanted to work for and started sending out resumes. First in my immediate vicinity and then to neighboring states. I had to send out about 200 or so resumes over a few weeks, but I eventually found work.

I'm not sure if you've ever read any of the books on job hunting advice, but there are some good ones with good ideas. I always like What Color is My Parachute? (I think that's the name)

Because the job you want is a creative one I think you might want to create a resume that shows off your creativity instead of the usual business resume. Highlight the things you do well and don't mention the things you don't do well. For example since you didn't finish a degree I'd just leave education off the resume. Focus it on the jobs you've had and the work you've done. Your references should help a lot.

An internship will give you more experience and likely another reference. It might also help you network with other people who know of a job. Internships can also turn into full time work after a time.

Unless you need a degree I'm not sure you have to go back to school. You should obviously keep learning though. Start reading industry magazines and books you can find. Both will often have career building advice.

I would definitely work on the print portfolio. I think they're the lifeblood of the industry when it comes to landing a job. I'd guess that any employer will ask to see yours in an interview.

And don't give up even if it gets disheartening at times. You only need one company to say yes.

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#3 (permalink)

You were sooo close there for a while dude. SCHOOL.... EDUCATION.... and you could not stick to it.... so, WHY do I want to hire you???? Get your butt back to school ..yea. pay your dues. get the entire well rounded EDUCATION you can. Many GA schools have referal programs and internships for THEIR STUDENTS....
........Do you see a PATTERN here Graphics Art Student......... ?
You are young, and have something I do not have..... TIME. I may have knowledge now after years of experience.... but not s much TIME as you have now.... READ THIS REPLY 5 TIMES.... CAREFULLY... then choose a plan.... (yea, retired mil person here).

#4 (permalink)

I don't totally agree with this. See not every individual gets his/her success because of a diploma or a degree. Though education is a very powerful tool for a youngster like you and good grades are very interesting for employers, experience and character plays a good role as well. I advise that if you think that what you experienced is enough, then try searching for jobs for you, if not, take short term courses(vocational course) or a degree then search for a job.

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#5 (permalink)

I know it's not for everyone, but unless you're absolutely set on working for someone else, I don't think you should discount freelance altogether just yet. You mentioned that freelance is very unstable and I'm not sure all of what you've done, but it really doesn't have to be if you approach it with a business mindset. I have some pointers in my blog that might be useful to you, but I'll elaborate more here as well.

• Plan for down times where you won't have much work and market and price yourself accordingly.
• Find someone you can subcontract if you get swamped.
• Make it clear what you do. You don't list services or prices (prices aren't always a good idea to list) anywhere or even mention the fact that you do web design.
• Network. Go to business breakfasts or luncheons and meet people. Even if they don't need you, they'll refer you.
• Client testimonials. If your clients liked what you did, put it next to their site on your portfolio.
• Diversify and take some chances with your design. Your portfolio is pretty solid (though vangogh has a great point about print), but some of the sites seem fairly generic. You don't have to take chances with your clients, necessarily, but even just doing some photoshop mockups would be a great start. Also, I'd put some of your more unique work in the front rather than what you currently have.

All that said, I think an internship is an excellent idea. It should give you insight into the way a studio works and you'll be able to pick up a lot of pointers just by observing. Unless you find a great studio to intern for, however, don't expect them to sit down and tutor you. Most internships are also unpaid or pay very little. At the end of it, though, you'll have a better idea of what path you want to take.