Any designer will agree that gaining experience before graduating is one of the most beneficial things you can do for your career. There are numerous advantages to completing a placement in graphic design; here are just a few.
Firstly, having prior experience demonstrates to employers that you understand how the industry works and can significantly aid you when applying for full-time work. Placements can last for twelve months, providing you with a full year of graphic design experience, along with the added benefit of earning a salary.
Engaging in placement will enhance your design skills and knowledge, enabling you to achieve more during your final year of study. Tutors and students can often distinguish those who have completed a placement based on the quality of work. What’s more, taking a year out can boost your confidence and help you feel more prepared for graduation.
During placement you’ll learn things that aren’t typically covered in school or university such as the job interview process, creating a portfolio, and CV writing. You will also gain insights into the differences between designing for print and designing for digital platforms. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to interact with clients, gaining an understanding of how they operate. All this experience will contribute to your personal growth and increase your self-assurance over the course of the year.
Being surrounded by experienced designers who have been in your shoes is invaluable. You’ll hear stories of design mistakes and successes, and learn how they reached their current positions. This exposure allows you to learn from their mistakes and benefit from their advice. Placements are also an opportunity to start networking, and colleagues can help connect you with other professionals in the field.
When applying for a design placement, it’s useful to find an environment that suits you. Every placement will have varying work arrangements including pay rates, remote work options, part-time or full-time positions, and working hours. Numerous variables exist, and you may feel more comfortable in a small studio or have no issues joining a larger company. A small studio can offer a more immersive experience, where you might be involved in various projects, whereas a larger company may focus on exposure to certain exciting aspects of design.
Although some of the day-to-day tasks during placement may seem mundane at times, it’s better to experience this before starting a full-time job. However, there are also numerous enjoyable projects you can be involved in, such as marketing campaigns, digital assets design, and company branding. Some jobs may be small and straightforward, while others may be more significant and demanding. The range of projects will contribute to shaping you into a well-rounded designer.
Overall, the significance of graphic design placements and internships cannot be overstated. They offer invaluable opportunities to gain practical experience, enhance skills, and build a professional network. By investing time in placements, aspiring designers can gain a competitive edge in the industry and set themselves up for long-term success.
If you're interested in a placement at Clever Ghost get in touch with your portfolio and an indication of how long you would like your placement to be.
