For the past few years, the graphic design industry is growing at an enormous speed. If you want to become a reputed designer, you should possess certain skills. These can include creative, business, and communication skills.
For the past few years, the graphic design industry has been growing at an enormous rate. The reason is that this industry offers creative as well as monetary satisfaction. Studies reveal that in the year 2008, 286100 persons in USA were associated with graphic designing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics, by the year 2018, number of graphic design jobs will increase by 12%.
This statistics proves the fact that graphic designers will have good opportunities in future. However, this does not mean that the industry will absorb anyone who wants to be a designer. Rather, chances are high that it will only accept those who possess certain qualities. If you want to know, whether you possess certain relevant skills and can leave your mark as a graphic designer, read on.
1. Creativity
Creativity is the most important requirement. With the help of creativity, one can develop designs that are original and unique. Remember that if you do not possess creative skills, you cannot survive in this industry.
2. Education
A graphic design company will generally prefer people who have a formal degree. Therefore, if you are an aspiring designer, try to obtain a degree or diploma in graphic designing or related field. In case, you do not have a degree, attend seminars or workshops to refine your designing skills.
3. Powerful Communication Skills
These days, any job demands good communication skills. Graphic designing is no exception. A good graphic designer should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills. You should be a good listener as well. Listening carefully to the client’s ideas is critical. It will help you to develop designs that reflect requirements of the clients.
4. Ability to Use Computers
For the past few years, experts are taking help of software programs for creating designs. A good designer should know how to use Quark Express, Adobe Photoshop, Flash, and others.
5. Business Skills
To earn reputation in the graphic design industry, you need to possess powerful business skills. You should be aware of marketing and sales strategies, database management. Remember that smart implementation of business strategies will help you to realize your potential as a graphic designer.
6. Technology Skills
Technology now dominates every aspect of our lives. To survive in the graphic design industry, you should know how to operate PCs, printers and other equipment. Additionally, if you already possess social media marketing skills, it would definitely work in your favour.
7. Project Management Skills
Graphic design projects usually come with deadlines. If you are aware of project management skills, you can complete your job within the deadline in a hassle-free manner. This will help you to earn appreciation of your clients. Also, managing time will help you to handle projects effectively and thus, impress clients.
8. Network Building Abilities
Network building abilities will help you to connect with other designers and learn from them. Furthermore, smart networking can help you to acquire more clients.
9. Interpersonal Relations Skills
This is especially important, when you are working as a team. Good interpersonal relations skill will ensure smooth functioning of the team. Additionally, it will encourage your colleagues to trust you.
10. Typography
Every design requires type. If you have in-depth knowledge about typography, chances are high that you can create interesting designs.
11. Flexibility
As a good designer, you should be flexible. You should be able to learn, unlearn, and relearn various things. Every project has different requirements. Therefore, you need to modify your skills and ideas accordingly. Flexibility will also help you to earn a wide range of clients.
12. Paying Attention to Details
Ensure that your project is perfect. Check the spellings and other important details in your designs. Before sending designs to the client, always double-check your work.
13. Problem Solving Skills
While creating designs for a particular project, you may encounter various problems. You have to solve these problems quickly, so that they do not affect quality of your work.
14. Photography Skills
As a graphic designer, you may or may not possess photography skills. However, if you do, it will act as an added advantage. By capturing interesting photos and using them in projects, you can impress your clients.
15. Knowledge about Print Design
Knowledge about print design will help you to understand how your creations would look in print. Knowing this is important, because it will help you to maintain consistency between the computer-generated works and printed products.
We highlighted certain skills that a good graphic designer should possess. However, remember that while working on a project, you may discover that a new skill is needed. In such a situation, you will have to learn it as soon as possible. For this reason, you should always possess an open mind for accepting challenges and overcoming them.