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A universal recipe for success doesn’t exist. The method that works for some may not work for you and vice versa. However, there are steps you can take while working on your professional growth, whether you are a graphic designer, a writer, etc. For those wondering how to find a job as a graphic designer in 2021, we present some proven methods and platforms you can visit and consider incorporating into your career path.
Your Portfolio Website Is Your Professional ID – Keep It Updated
Every high-quality graphic designer has a personal website. If you still don’t have one, it is time to build it. A portfolio website is an initial step you need to take in order to attract clients. Beginners usually send links to sites they worked on to potential clients, but it should not be your way if you want to present yourself as a professional designer offering the best.
Bear in mind that your industry is crowded, and everyone wants to stand out. You need to find a way to be authentic and present your skills in the best possible light. Your portfolio is one of those ways.
Remember, once you polish the portfolio, make sure to link it everywhere. You can put it on your social media accounts, business cards, email signature, etc.
What Do You Think About Blogging?
Andy Warhol said: “In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes.”
The future is now, and thanks to the expansion of social media, we all have the chance to be ”famous.” It’s never been easier to create content and build a community around it. There was a time when movie stars and rock stars had fans. Now, everyone, who has an account on any social media, has an audience.
One way to build an audience, and most importantly, to attract clients is to start blogging
To be honest, writing is half talent and half hard work and practice. We could even say talent is the minor part of this proportion. So, if you want to create quality articles, you need to start writing asap and write frequently.
Someone once said you need to write tons of bad articles to create a good one, and that goes for anything in life you aspire to do. As a designer, you want to write about topics related to your profession. Be creative, and don’t hesitate to look for inspiration. Read other designers’ blogs and, metaphorically speaking, ‘steal’ their ideas. Avoid plagiarism. That’s not something you want to be recognized by. Your content should be useful and relevant. Also, it should be educational and entertaining.
We all like to talk about the things we are passionate about
We also like to read about other people’s passions. Let that be your starting point. Write about things that make you inspired. Write about tricks you use to create a design. Talk about your creative process. All of this will attract those who have the same interests as you. If you dedicate some time to share your content with the right people, you’ll not wait long before a potential client knocks on your door.
Another thing — almost nothing happens overnight. You need to be patient. Building a personal brand is an ongoing process, and blogging is one of the methods you should definitely take into consideration. In the beginning, you will not have a tremendous number of visitors. It should not discourage you because a blog is a long-term investment, and if you are dedicated and consistent, it will pay off eventually.
The Strength of Networking
Experts will say the best way to build a network and find clients is to go out and meet people. We live in a period of pandemics, and social distance is of the utmost importance. Therefore, consider creating an account on networks like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Slack groups if you still don’t have it.
Another way to meet new clients is good old-fashioned – word of mouth. Many will tell you there’s no better marketing than recommendations. Build high-quality relationships with clients, respect agreements, and there’s no doubt they’ll recommend you. Also, once the pandemic is over, some of the places you can meet new people are:
- Cafes
- Parties
- Meetups
- Sports events and classes
- Conferences and conventions
- Trips – it is proven that people are more open talking to strangers while traveling
Consider Converting Your Designs Into Templates
Designing website templates will not only ensure extra income, but it could also be an excellent way to gain experience and publicity. Once people see and purchase your template on Themeforest, Webflow, or Creative Market, there’s a big chance they will contact you and suggest a collaboration. Another great site of templates is that they can be a significant addition to your portfolio.
Top Four Places to Find a Job as a Graphic Designer in 2021
Krop
Krop is a platform known for outstanding insight into website design and graphic design opportunities for most companies in the US and Canada. The company offers free and paid versions. A free version is especially popular among job seekers around the world. The company can pay a monthly fee to access the database of designers or post a job opportunity using the job posting package.
Fiverr
Fiverr connects service providers with potential projects. Here, graphic designers can create a service or task which can be promoted on the Fiver social media pages and website. Fiverr offers the option of creating different categories of the same service, including basic, standard and urgent. The clients can either post their project requirements or select the services and contact the chosen designer.
Peopleperhour
Peopleperhour connects companies and job seekers from all across the globe. The portal has a two-way organization. Companies can display job opportunities on the portal. Also, the designer will be notified via email. Also, freelancers can post hourly rates of their services, and companies will have access to the database.
The platform selects designers based on their portfolio, and freelancers are then asked to bid on specific projects. The project’s award is based on the client feedback, rating, quotation, and proposal subs. Before awarding the project, the company may ask the designer to provide a portfolio or an example. Peopleperhour charges a service fee for the entire process.
Upwork
The portal was first launched as Elance O-desk. I was then rebranded and became Upwork. It works on building a process. Freelancers are provided with credit, while it is always possible to purchase an extra credit.
Nothing Happens Overnight – Be Patient
As you can see, there are many ways to pursue new job opportunities as a graphic designer in 2021. However, becoming a reliable graphic designer should be your number one priority. Nothing happens overnight. Believe in yourself, be consistent yet patient.
Everyone wants to stand out, and you should too; why not?
Remember to stay true to yourself and build your brand based on things you are passionate about. The right people will recognize it.
