Advice for Graduates: My Top 3 Tips for Newly Graduated Designers
Jul 13, 2024
Congratulations, graduates! You've worked hard, pulled all-nighters, and finally earned that design degree. But now, as you step into the real world, you might be wondering: what's next? Navigating the design industry can be daunting, but fear not. I've been in your shoes, and I'm here to share my top three tips to help you get started on the right foot.
1. Struggling to Get Experience? Create Your Own.
One of the biggest challenges for new designers is the infamous "experience required" catch-22. How can you gain experience if no one will hire you without it? The answer is simple: create your own opportunities.
Start personal projects that excite you. Whether it's redesigning a favourite brand's logo, creating a new app concept, or developing a series of posters for a fictional event, these projects can help you build a portfolio that showcases your skills and creativity. Volunteering for non-profits or small businesses can also provide real-world experience while making a positive impact.
Collaborate with friends or fellow graduates on projects. This not only builds your portfolio but also helps you learn to work in a team, which is a crucial skill in any design job. By taking initiative and showing your passion through self-initiated work, you'll demonstrate to potential employers that you're proactive and dedicated.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Put Yourself Out There!
Networking can be intimidating, especially if you're just starting out. However, it's an essential part of breaking into the design industry. The connections you make can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable advice.
Start by sharing your work on social media platforms like Instagram, Behance, and LinkedIn. Engage with the design community by commenting on others' work and participating in discussions. Attending industry events, whether in-person or virtual, is another great way to meet people and learn from experts.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals whose work you admire. Send them a thoughtful message expressing your appreciation for their work and ask for advice or feedback. Many experienced designers are happy to help newcomers and share their insights.
3. Aim to Continue Learning - Education Doesn’t Stop Once You’ve Graduated.
Graduation might mark the end of formal education, but learning is a lifelong journey, especially in the ever-evolving field of design. Staying current with the latest trends, tools, and techniques is essential to maintaining a competitive edge.
Take online courses to expand your skillset, from mastering new software to exploring different design disciplines. Reading books and articles written by industry leaders can provide deeper insights and inspire new ideas.
Seek feedback on your work from peers and mentors. Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth and improvement. Join design communities and forums where you can share your work and receive input from others.
Navigating the design industry as a new graduate can be challenging, but with perseverance, creativity, and a willingness to learn, you can carve out a successful career. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and it's okay to take small steps. Keep pushing forward, stay inspired, and never stop growing. Your journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless.
Keep creating and believing in yourself. You've got this!