Graphic Design salary?

State43

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Nov 22, 2010
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Gonzo gives a very good synopsis of realistic expectations for graphic designers. Work hard, have a good attitude (the client is ALWAYS right), and you'll be rewarded.

It also helps to have a little talent. ;)

Good luck and don't be discouraged. I've never regretted my career choice.

Nah lol
 

southernfriedCY

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Feb 11, 2009
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I can't count the number of books that I've looked at over the years where someone should have sat the student down and said "son, you should really try to do something else that doesn't require any kind of creative skill set". Almost to the point that I feel sorry for them. I think the design department at ISU has improved tremendously with this aspect, but the other wannabe GD programs around the state; not so much.
 

twistedredbird

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Apr 26, 2008
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the hardest thing to find is a graphic designer that listens to his boss/client. If you can do that and do good work, you will be ok. Print is dying, so you best bet is to get more experience in multiple medias.

GD jobs in Chicago market are real tight. As with anything, hard to get over that no work experience hump. A lot of firms here do nonpaid internships though.
 

cytech

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Apr 10, 2006
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HTML 5, flash, SQL are key technologies you need to embrace in today's web design work. Tomorrow is a different story...

I would highly recommend learning about SEO (Search Engine Optimization) another leg of the web design side that will make you more valuable.
 

State43

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Nov 22, 2010
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Whats tough is to differentiate between web design and programing. One is quite a bit more skilled than the other. Would require more coursework or a firm dedication in your off time with a great level of understanding. Programming is often difficult for someone with a more artistic eye as we tend not to think in that manner.
 

Gonzo

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Mar 10, 2009
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I would highly recommend learning about SEO (Search Engine Optimization) another leg of the web design side that will make you more valuable.

SEO is more related to web content than design, but you're right, knowing about it makes you that much more marketable.
 

DJK15

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Apr 17, 2008
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Graduated from ISU in 06 with BFA in GD. First few years were pretty rough. I recommend a big city like Minneapolis or Chicago. I'm currently an art director making 70k. Be versatile, learn as many programs as possible, know web, animation, video editing - everyone can do print.
 

State43

Well-Known Member
Nov 22, 2010
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Omaha, NE
Graduated from ISU in 06 with BFA in GD. First few years were pretty rough. I recommend a big city like Minneapolis or Chicago. I'm currently an art director making 70k. Be versatile, learn as many programs as possible, know web, animation, video editing - everyone can do print.

Couldn't agree more. I am looking to make my move into a more leadership role but I definately need to refresh some skillsets....