With various styles of design and different paths one can take, beginning a career or even a hobby in graphic design can be overwhelming. You could prefer to do print work or digital work, focus on websites or designing magazines; the possibilities are endless. While it can be scary to choose one path, pursuing a career in this field allows you to truly love what you do. Use our tips below to help you grow into the best designer you can be!

Career Advice from our Expert Graphic Designers

1. Whatever You Do, Be Patient!

Any form of creativity requires patience. There are many different tools inside of Photoshop, Illustrator and other programs that will take time for you to become accustomed to. Take it easy and remember it takes years of exploring techniques for you to find your specific way to design. If you’re ever feeling discouraged, know that feeling is totally normal, but do not allow yourself to give up! Instead, use it as motivation to create work that impresses others and yourself.

Remember that the best work cannot be made in a couple hours. While it may take a lot of time to complete a project, the time invested will definitely be worth it. You will also spend hours on a project and end up scrapping what you came up with. Instead of pulling your hair out, keep your sanity by taking a break. This will allow you to come back with the determination to make something better.

2. Work Smart, Not Hard

Of course you need to work hard to become an expert. But there are many shortcut keys in design programs to help save you time designing. These little shortcuts will become your best friend in becoming a faster, more productive designer. Becoming more efficient with your programs and exploring the different ways to execute tasks will undoubtedly help you. While it may take time to learn all of the different shortcuts available, being a more efficient designer will help you land a job over other candidates.

3. Find Helpful Resources

Other than school, there are many other resources out there that can help you in becoming a better designer. One of the most valuable resources you can have is a group of designers. Whether these designers are your friends, classmates, or part of an online forum, they can teach you new and easier routes to accomplish tasks. No matter how experienced of a designer you are, other’s opinions will help you take your work to the next level.

In addition to other designers, online design tips and tutorials are great resources you should take advantage of. Websites like Lynda, Envato Tuts+ and even Youtube easily demonstrate skills you are trying to learn. Other online resources include websites that offer interesting fonts, brushes and textures for you to use. These resources can help you develop your personal artistic style.

4. Keep Up with Current Trends

The world of design is always changing. From what colors are most popular to what fonts are in use and even to what website layouts are most sought after, be sure to do your research. If you want to stay relevant, you have to be open to new trends and to trying new ideas. Read up on popular blogs like GDUSA, Creative Bloq and Print Magazine to help keep you up to date in the latest design trends.

5. When Necessary, Find Inspiration

Every artist, whether you’re a writer, a painter or a designer, gets stuck in a creative block from time to time. As frustrating as this can be, one of the best ways to get back into your groove is to find inspiration from other designers! Whether you find other artists on popular blogs, social media or in your classroom, stepping away from your own project to admire other’s work will help you get your creative juices flowing. You can even find inspiration by evaluating work you have completed in the past!

Graphic Design Internship in New Jersey

Looking for more tips and tricks from our expert Graphic Designers? We’re always looking for excited and motivated individuals to join our internship program! For more information on how you can join the #TBTeam, please contact us today.