As a graphic designer, your work would include:

• discussing the project requirements (the ‘brief’) with clients, senior designers or account executives
• providing cost quotations
• choosing the most suitable materials and style
• producing rough sketches or computer visuals to show to the client
• using specialist computer software to prepare designs
• producing a final layout with detailed specifications for typefaces, letter size and colours
• working to budgets and deadlines.

You may also produce 3D (three dimensional) designs for packaging, exhibitions and displays.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You would usually be employed on the strength of your skills rather than your qualifications. However, most professional graphic designers have a BTEC HND, foundation degree or degree in graphic design or another art or design based subject.

To search for colleges and universities offering HNDs, foundation degrees and degrees, visit Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. Check with the individual colleges and universities for their entry requirements.

You will need a working knowledge of computer design software such as:

• Quark Xpress
• FreeHand
• Illustrator
• Photoshop
• 3D Studio
• Flash.
  
  

You can do courses in these at colleges and with private course providers.

Talent and contacts are the key to getting work, and you will need to keep an up-to-date portfolio of your work to show to potential employers.

Unpaid work experience will give you the chance to develop your portfolio, make contacts and impress employers. You could also create a website to showcase your work.

Competition for jobs is strong and not all jobs are advertised, so it is a good idea to network and make contacts within the industry, and to approach companies and agencies directly.