Working as a graphic designer is not as glorified as many would think.
It can be a stressful, cutting edge career, where one has to wear many different hats and face challenges daily.
The industry technically and creatively evolves faster than almost any other industry, so graphic designers have to constantly stay on top of trends, learn new software, consistently stay creative, and come up with intriguing concepts and designs that will capture the minds and emotions of those who view the work.
A huge part of a graphic designer’s job is being intuitive and attentive to the client’s needs; being able to see through what they are saying vs what they are really saying (or meaning). It takes more than artistic ability to be a good designer; it takes excellent communication skills to understand and manage the client’s expectations and criticisms. Developing client-related skills, and making the design process about them and their product (and keeping your ego out of your work) will set you above many other graphic designers.
A graphic designer is also known as a Brand Identity Developer, Visual Communication Designer or a Communication Designer. For the most part a graphic designer is someone who creates visual concepts, by hand or by using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They help to make an organisation recognisable by selecting colour, images, or logo designs that represent a particular idea or identity to be used in advertising and promotions.
Some good advice for graphic design students is to understand it’s important to love the whole design process, from the start right through to the end. Make sure to keep updated with any changes in the industry; it’s always moving and get get a bit dizzy at times. Though don’t blindly follow trends as traditional design is always appealing, timeless, classic. Look up Saul Bass. Doing design for the sake of design is not the way to go – keep the passion and enjoy your working life!
Sometimes you’ll become engrossed in a design you’re working on, so much so that you become defensive if it’s called out as rubbish. Don’t get overly sensitive, take it in your stride – keep your mind open at all times to suggestions. Just because someone doesn’t like your work doesn’t mean you are a stinky designer.
Invest in your portfolio, and be selective in what goes in it. Focus on your best pieces, and make them as impressive as you can make them. Employers will often ask you to explain what’s in your portfolio and why it’s in there, so make sure you can explain why you included each piece.
Drop by COG Branding Careers or stay tuned to our social channels for career openings.
Below are the key disciplines in which COG Design delivers our clients service, click through to learn more about what COG Design offers.
Print Design Click Here
COG Design provides our print design services which covers all the traditional print channels and media types. From Stationery, Brochures, Catalogues & Direct Mail.
Brand Design Click Here
COG Design deliver a superior brand management design service suite. We’re experts at launching brands, overhauling old brands and most of all managing them. Creative Direction, Identity, Style Guides & more.
Digital Web Design Click Here
COG Design create advanced website designs for all technologies, platforms and devices. Our designs for online environments provide positive user experiences.
Corporate Design Click Here
Corporate Design by COG delivers our blue chip corporate clients the sharp edge. We focus on the delivery of timeless design projects that build lasting brand equity.
Packaging DesignClick Here
COG Design develops a premium in packaging designs. Our clients vary from FMCG, product packaging, food packaging and retail packaging plus many more.
Environment DesignClick Here
COG Design outdoor design and environment design services cover a broad range of areas from event and exhibition design through to wayfinding and point of sale.
Get in touch with COG Design today
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If you would like discuss our Design Services or require more information, call us today on (+61 2) 9523 6007
