It’s always difficult for a newbie to adjust in a new environment as a graphic designer. Initial days go in complete confusion. We came across one such graphic designer, and decided to help out by providing useful tips that we have learned and picked during our time as graphic designers.
Under the pressure of the new working environment, many new graphic designers fail to fulfill their potential. As said earlier that’s basically due to inexperience. Today in this article, we would like to help out our inexperienced and newbie graphic designers on how to adapt to new conditions with the following valuable career advices.
Learn from Peers & Seniors
Being a newbie and relatively inexperienced in this field, the best thing one can do is learn from the peers and seniors, their experience must be acknowledged. It’s always a good idea to make note of the useful tips and advices received from people already working. They learn from their mistakes and share experiences that can help you avoid making the same mistakes. Never feel ashamed of asking for help.
Remember Colleagues Name
We do agree and understand the fact that some people are just not good at remembering names, but in the professional field it is very important to remember names of your peers and colleagues. It leaves a very good impression as well as helps one earn admiration and respect. Calling a co-worker with his or her name instead of just designation will create a strong bond, which is very important when it comes to team work.
Ask Relevant Questions
A lot of the times, when young graphic designers are hired, they feel shy in asking questions. Whenever you come across a problem or an issue and can’t solve it, never hesitate to ask questions. Asking relevant questions always leaves a positive impression on your employer, who will think of you as a willing learner and an enthusiast. No matter how silly you feel your questions might be, never feel shy to ask anything to clear the air.
Be A Team Player
Working freelance or in a design agency are two totally different things. Working as a freelancer means that you are the only one in charge and calling the shots. But if you are employed and are part of a team then it’s a completely different scenario. As a newbie and inexperienced designer, it is a must to learn to be a team player and work with a team. Learning to coordinate with the team members and acknowledging each others’ efforts is of utmost importance.
Be Organized
One of the biggest issues an inexperienced junior entry level designer comes across is disorganization. It can be difficult for a newbie to handle work or keep it organized, but should be learnt quickly to keep it arranged and organized. Most of the work of a graphic designer is involved with Illustrator and Photoshop, hence, it involves innumerable layers in one file. One very useful tip for a potentially successful graphic designer is to name the layers accordingly. It will make it easier for you to keep your work organized and find files when they are needed.
Improve Via Criticism
The problem with many youngsters nowadays is that they don’t take criticism very well. So it is very important for young graphic designers to realize that creative criticism not only assists in improving your work, but also enhances your skills. Learn to be patient and listen to different opinions and analysis regarding you. Instead of just reacting in a negative way, try to extract the positives out of criticism and improve your work through it.
Don’t Make Enemies
A very simple and important rule when looking to adjust in a new official environment is to make your personality as a graphic designer likeable. The worst you can do is to make enemies. Avoid doing so as it might affect your appraisals. Make as many friends at work as possible, as it’s not good for your career to have someone backbiting. Always look to stay at good terms with everyone irrespective of your position. One never knows when an acquaintance might come in handy.
Speak Out Your Ideas
A lot of the times, when graphic designers are new they feel shy in giving their views, ideas and opinions. They are always worried about being embarrassed or even humiliated. If you truly believe that your input can improve a logo design, and then don’t be hesitant to express your views and ideas. Always remember that there is a very thin line between arguing and getting your point across. Every good idea can go a long way in helping you get an appraisal.