What the heck we do all day?
So what do I do?
I get a good chuckle whenever someone refers to graphic designers as flighty. The majority of the creatives I know are exactly the opposite of flighty — they are quite organized. I don't wear pajamas to work and I never turn up late. I have no idea where this stereotype came from. I think creativity needs a safe place to thrive, and I create this place with a structured, usually a pre-planned day.
Being a Graphic Designer means being able to communicate information visually, which requires a great deal of problem solving. This can range from designing brand identities, marketing posts, content designs and what not. The great thing about being a designer is the variety of work you get to do, so there is no such thing as a "typical day."
What I need to have?
Graphic designers should have a variety of skills and responsibilities depending on their specialty and workplace. They will typically meet with clients or art directors to determine design requirements. They will use design software to combine images, illustrations, and text to bring an idea to life. They may also be required to present their ideas and incorporate feedback from coworkers or clients into future drafts.
Skills
A keen eye for aesthetics and details
Exceptional creativity and innovation
Accuracy and attention to detail
Eminent communication skills
Time management and organisational skills
Ability to work methodically and meet deadlines
Professional approach to save time and costs
Excellent IT skills, especially with design softwares & technologies
An understanding of the latest trends and their role within the field
Degree in Design, Fine Arts or related field (isn't enough without basic experience)
Responsibilities
Check design briefs to determine requirements
Plan projects and establish budget constraints
Create visuals based on the specifications
Make rough drafts and present your ideas
Create all the required designs by hand or with software
Use the proper colors and layouts for each graphic
Collaborate with copywriters and the creative director
Create the final designs
Test graphics across various media
Amend designs based on the feedback
Day's schedule
7 AM
I wake up and gracefully – ahem – fall out of bed. First, coffee (priorities). I pull out my mobile to check all apps, messages, go through social media feeds and read the news until I get to know what’s going on in my world, and the world at large.
8 AM
After a wake-up call of caffeine and a hot shower, I move onto breakfast to fuel up for the day. Get ready, blast the music through headphones and commute to work, which is just a 15 minute walk. A seasoned commuter in me has been happy since then.
9 AM
Once at office, I top up the supply of caffeine coursing through my veins before settling down at my desk to plan my day. After checking emails, I have a browse through internet for inspiration and to fire up creativity.
10 AM
Suitably inspired, the work begins. With a wide range of clients, the work can be equally varied, from logos to templates, website or an advert. Now rest of the day is dependent on Adobe, Microsoft and Google softwares. Good ol' faithful.
12 PM
Sometimes a change of scenery for a client meeting on a new project. After shaking hands and making introductions, I scribble down notes as we listen to the client's vision for his business and what he wants his branding to say. Following that, we brainstorm some ideas to put together some initial concepts. This includes sketches, colors, mood boards, words, all of which will be used to shape our design. With a specific deadline, we have enough time to generate a variety of ideas and begin refining them before presenting them to the client.
1 PM
Lunchtime! I tend to keep my lunch simple and homemade, and often eat at my desk as I give my brain a time-out. Browsing mobile apps to lighten the mind. Afterall break time sometimes results in brillliant ideas.
3 PM
I start emptying the task list of the day. Remaining design work, finishing details, email follow-ups, team and client reviews, and getting work done.
5 PM
Wrap things up and call it a day. Brighten the mood by some casual chatter and quick snacks.
6 PM
I devote myself to my enjoyments once I return home. Gaming, binge-watching, or simply scrolling through feeds. It's me time. Prepare dinner and get back to doing nothing. Sometimes plan alters due to social meets, extra work or other factors.
12 AM
I finish up preparation for tomorrow and fall into cozy bed right away to catch some Z's.
Final thoughts
So the day sometimes can be hectic, but usually very fun and interesting. One piece of advice I would give is to be as creative and open-minded as possible. Also, never punish yourself for making a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes, but the best part is that you can always learn from them.
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