While
anyone with a computer and a working knowledge of Quark or Photoshop could call
himself a graphic designer, truly talented freelance graphic designers have
portfolios to back up their experiences. Confused about what skills they should
possess? Use the following guide:
A beginning graphic
designer should have, at minimum, comps and art-school drawings. Ideally he or
she should also have black & white or 2-color printed flyers, postcards, or
mailers.
Second-tier graphic
designers should have originally designed logos in their portfolios as well as
the things a beginner should have.
More experienced designers
will have various bindings, die-cuts, varnishes, inserts, and possibly complex
packaging designs on top of all of the things listed above.
The top-level designers
have usually worked for Fortune 500 clients or perhaps has launched the style
for major brand products, so their portfolio should reflect this.
One way to keep the freelance graphic artist jobs rolling in is to take
the time to write up a brief newsletter. Let your clients know what you have
been working on!
Another
suggestion is to post press releases. These can be particularly helpful when
something new has occurred in your career. And, if you've won an award or
launched a Web site, keep your clients in the loop. And remember, when you
write about your clients you will please them by giving them good press.
For
those who categorize themselves as "doers," joining an organization
of your professional peers might pump up your career. There is an organization
called The Graphic Artists Guild for graphic artists and other design types.
The Graphic Artists Guild is a national union of illustrators, designers, web
creators, production artists, surface designers and other creatives who have
come together to pursue common goals, share their experience, raise industry
standards, and improve the ability of visual creators to achieve satisfying and
rewarding careers."
The Guild
gives direct connection to a designer's peers. Workshops and events sponsored
at the local chapter levels provide colleagues an opportunity to meet in a
noncompetitive environment, network, and take action on issues of concern.
Members appreciate a community where information on business practices,
employment opportunities, clients, vendors, and technology is shared.
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