The Tribune

A graphic designer is a professional responsible for designing contents for products and various activities related to print, advertising, website, magazines, brand identity and games. This role calls for understanding a client’s needs before making a design decision. There are many benefits involved with being a graphic designer, both job and lifestyle-related. A good salary is not the only thing that matters.

So, what is in store for you if you choose this career path? Are the benefits of this job the type of advantages you are looking for? Read on to learn about the bonuses that come with being a graphic designer.

Expressive Creativity

The biggest benefit of being a graphic designer is the freedom to express your imagination and creativity. Whatever you imagine and visualise can be put in the form of display for others to appreciate, admire and even criticise.

Web or Print Flexibility

Another advantage to being a graphic designer are the different mediums, the two big ones being print and Internet. Besides the ability to branch off into other skill sets easily, this medium can dramatically increase your freelance ability or business growth.

Multiple environments

If you are looking to work in a specific kind of work environment, then the world is your oyster. Nearly every company in the world needs to promote their brand. That means they require a logo, brand guidelines and other important visual materials to support it.

Every business needs a graphic designer. If a business is going to be marketing, then someone needs to design the relevant materials. As long as businesses keep growing and new ones keep appearing, then graphic designers will always be employed.

Freelance

Do you have the entrepreneurial itch? Many designers prefer to be their own boss and choose to start their own freelance business. Not only does this mean you can work from home but it also allows you to set your own prices and hours. If you have ever dreamed of having your personal studio or office, you can turn your freelance business into a larger operation and begin operating your own studio or online business.

Learn on your own

While I do encourage professional training, many amazing designers learned on their own. If you practice consistently, follow tutorials, read books and really have a passion for design you can learn on your own.

You will never get bored

There are always new technologies and trends to learn. Style and aesthetics change so quickly, which gives you an opportunity to explore new methods and learn something new every day. There are no rules in graphic design. Just because you received a degree in web design, that does not mean you cannot change your mind and become a 3-D artist.

Meeting new designers

Linking with fellow designers is an opportunity to exchange ideas, process and interact regarding ongoing projects to stay updated.

Stable income

As long as you work, whether it is freelance or under a design company, you will be paid.

One focus

When you are working for a design firm your sole focus is on designing. There is hardly any hassle to multi-task on different projects.

Access to resources

While designing you will discover new ideas and concepts, which will aid your design and help you become more skillful with each passing day. As a graphic designer you have greater access to the latest industry standards, which offer more development and scope for learning.

Seminar and training privileges

There are times when you may be called upon to represent your company in technical seminars, workshops or conferences that not many have the opportunity to attend.

So now that you have read about the 'perks’ of being a graphic designer, it may be just as clear to you as it is to us: This profession has a lot going for it. But is it really worth it?

Absolutely. Despite being competitive, the graphic design market is growing rapidly and does not show any signs of decline. So if you are thinking of making that step, consider the industry to not only be just a merger of image or colours, however deeply connected it is with history and philosophy. I welcome you to the world of graphic design, which offers the ability to express creativity freely while still earning a great living. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT COLUMNIST: Deidre M. Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer/brand marketing analyst, author and certified life coach with qualifications of B. Sc and M.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of The Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas