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Freelancing Adds Flexibility to a Graphic Design Career

By Joe Taylor
Learning & Life Columnist
August 28, 2006

In a world where many jobs demand too many hours at the office, a flexible freelance career can be appealing. A graphic design career is perfectly suited for full time freelance work, as long as you can match your artistic talent with business and sales skills.

Most entry-level graphic design jobs require a four-year degree. Therefore, if you're considering a freelance graphic design career, plan on attending graphic design school. Many small business clients use the Internet to find freelance graphic designers. A graphic design degree will boost your profile as you apply for graphic design jobs online.

Graphic Design School Basics

Graphic design school will also give you a basic foundation in graphic design and the opportunity to build a portfolio that you can show potential clients. Classes you may take in graphic design school could include:

• Typography
• Color Theory
• Digital Illustration
• Design Software
• Media Graphics

Many schools now offer graphic design degrees online, making it more convenient to earn your degree from any location.

Striking Out on Your Own

Not everyone is suited for a freelance graphic design career. Running your own business can be profitable, as freelance graphic designers can earn more than design firm staffers. However, you'll need more than creativity to pull in the big bucks. Here are some qualities of successful freelance graphic designers:

• Business background: You'll need to run your graphic design business on a budget.
• Sales ability: You have to hustle for business, especially in your first year.
• Self-discipline: working at home is distracting, and you'll need to build strong routines.

Freelancing is an ideal career for graphic designers who want to work for themselves and have a flexible schedule. A graphic design education is the first step toward establishing a successful career on your own terms.

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• The Creative Group
• Graphic Design Forum
• Graphic Design Forum

About the Author
Author and business coach, Joe Taylor Jr. helps professionals change careers. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Ithaca College.

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