A graphic designer works on a variety of products and activities, such as websites, advertising, books, magazines, posters, computer games, product packaging, exhibitions and displays, corporate communications and corporate identity, i.e. giving organizations a visual 'brand'.

You'll work to a brief agreed with the client, creative director or account manager and will develop creative ideas and concepts. The appropriate media and style has to be chosen to meet the client's objectives.

The work demands creative flair, up-to-date knowledge of industry software and a professional approach to time, costs and deadlines.

Responsibilities:

You may need to manage more than one design brief at a time and typical activities include:

• meeting clients or account managers to discuss the business objectives and requirements of the job;
• estimating the time required to complete the work and providing quotes for clients;
• developing design briefs that suit the client's purpose;
• thinking creatively to produce new ideas and concepts and developing interactive design;
• using innovation to redefine a design brief within the constraints of cost and time;
• presenting finalised ideas and concepts to clients or account managers;
• working with a range of media, including computer-aided design (CAD) and keeping up to date with emerging technologies;
• proofreading to produce accurate and high-quality work;
• demonstrating illustrative skills with rough sketches and working on layouts ready for print;
• commissioning illustrators and photographers;
• working as part of a team with printers, copywriters, photographers, stylists, illustrators, other designers, account executives, web developers and marketing specialists.

Skills:

Apart from technical and drawing skills, you will need to show:

• passion and enthusiasm for design, with a creative flair;
• a flexible approach when working in a team;
• excellent communication skills in order to interpret and negotiate briefs with clients;
• good presentation skills and the confidence to explain and sell ideas to clients and colleagues;
• time management skills and the ability to cope with several projects at a time;
• accuracy and attention to detail when finalizing designs;
• being open to feedback and willing to make changes to your designs;
• effective networking skills to build contacts.

Qualifications:

Relevant subjects for graphic design work include those that involve visual arts. In particular, a degree or certificate in the following subjects may increase your chances:

• graphic design;
• illustration;
• photography;
• visual art.
• 3D design;
• communication design;
• fine art;

Any design-based course will give you a good grounding and knowledge of design, art history and printing techniques.

Some roles don't require a degree or certificate, as job offers may be based on the standard of portfolio work and not on educational qualifications. However, progress without formal training is extremely difficult, and the vast majority of graphic designers have higher qualifications.