08 Jan 2025
With the right mindset, some solid strategies, and a little effort, you’ll be on your way to landing your first design gig. Here’s how to get started.
Blog
So, you’re ready to dive into the world of graphic or digital design—exciting, isn’t it? But let’s be honest, starting a career in design, or branching out as a freelancer for the first time can feel a little overwhelming, especially with so much competition out there. Don’t stress! With the right mindset, some solid strategies, and a little effort, you’ll be on your way to landing your first design gig. Here’s how to get started.
First things first, let’s clear something up: being a designer isn’t just about creating beautiful things. Sure, creativity is very important, but professional design is more about solving problems and meeting goals. Whether it’s branding, packaging, or websites, your job as a designer is to make things work—visually and functionally. Keep that in mind as you build your career. You're designing for a target audience, not yourself.
Think of your portfolio as your design resume. It’s what potential employers and clients will look at to decide if you’re the right fit. Don’t have paid projects yet? No worries! Create personal projects, redesign something you love, or take on small volunteer gigs. Once you have a few pieces, showcase them on a website (there are plenty of tools like WordPress, Squarespace, or Adobe Portfolio to make this easy). And remember to keep it fresh—update it regularly and remove old work that no longer reflects your skills.
The best way to grow in a design career is to absorb it from the world around you. Take a closer look at packaging in the shops, movie posters, app designs, or even the typography on street signs. Think about what works and what doesn’t. By doing this, you’ll train your eye and get a feel for the kind of design that connects with people.
You don’t need to be perfect when you start, but you do need to practise. Sketch every day, try out new tools, and experiment with different styles. And don’t shy away from feedback—whether it’s from a mentor, a design group, or an online community. Constructive criticism is your best friend when it comes to improving your skills.
Okay, let’s talk networking. It might sound intimidating, but connecting with other creatives and potential clients is a game-changer. Attend local networking meetups, join online communities, or even follow and engage with designers you admire on social media. These relationships can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, or just some really great advice.
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but here’s a tip: instead of making it all about you, focus on the company. Ask questions like, “What kind of design challenges are you working on right now?” or “How can I help you solve your current problems?” This shows that you’re not just talented—you’re a team player who’s ready to jump in and make a difference.
Don’t feel like you have to send your resume or portfolio to every job listing out there. Instead, pick a few companies that really excite you. Research what they do, what their values are, and how you might fit in. Tailor your application to show them why you’re the perfect match. It might take more time, but it’s way more effective than sending out generic applications.
The design world moves fast. What’s trending today might feel outdated tomorrow. Stay ahead by learning new skills, experimenting with fresh ideas, and keeping an eye on what’s happening in the industry. The more adaptable you are, the more valuable you’ll be as a designer.
You can view graphic design jobs on the Cemoh Job Board.
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