Top 10 Skills of a Graphic Designer
I’m a creative problem-solver driven by the desire to see small businesses improve their image and succeed. I’ve got over 20 years experience and have worked with clients as large as Nike and as small as a local sole-proprietor. I’ve been an advocate for education, a member of prestigious design organizations, won awards, and been invited to judge design competitions. Over the years, I have also written blogs and articles for a number of online sites and print publications. I have a heavy background in art, photography, graphic design and thinking outside the box. When not working, you’ll find me getting outdoors, practicing Qi Gong, snowboarding, camping, collecting rocks, and driving around in a sweet 1970 Camaro.
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1. Artistic ability
I really do feel you need this one, whether it’s something inherent for you or something you go to school for to develop. If you don’t have it, it shows. Knowing design theory is also crucial.
2. Dedication
You need dedication to not only the field itself but also once you start working for someone or freelancing/starting your own business.
3. Standards
See AIGA’s Standards of Professional Practice for a good run down on this.
4. Creative problem solving
I’ve found that if you can develop this skill it will greatly benefit you in the design world. Clients will continually pose problems for you that you need to creatively find solutions for.
5. An understanding of marketing
Design and marketing go hand in hand in my opinion. If you don’t understand marketing, your design might be pretty, but might miss the mark on effective visual communication.
6. An understanding of typography
Another great thing to really be familiar with if you’ll be working in the graphic arts.
7. Communication skills
Also critically important is the ability to communicate effectively.
8. Project management skills
It helps to develop project management skills, even if you’re working for someone else. These skills will help you stay organized and help with time management on a project. If you do branch out on your own, you’ll find these skills invaluable to keep a project running smoothly.
9. Familiarity with other artistic/creative fields
This can only help you to be familiar with things like photography, layout, web design, traditional art, etc.
10. Business sense
Remember that graphic design is a business. If you are working for someone else, it’s helpful to be aware of how the business runs (not just your part in it). If you’re on your own, it’s critical to have business skills to be successful.
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I’m a creative problem-solver driven by the desire to see small businesses improve their image and succeed. I’ve got over 20 years experience and have worked with clients as large as Nike and as small as a local sole-proprietor. I’ve been an advocate for education, a member of prestigious design organizations, won awards, and been invited to judge design competitions. Over the years, I have also written blogs and articles for a number of online sites and print publications. I have a heavy background in art, photography, graphic design and thinking outside the box. When not working, you’ll find me getting outdoors, practicing Qi Gong, snowboarding, camping, collecting rocks, and driving around in a sweet 1970 Camaro.
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