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What Does a Graphic Designer Do? And How to Start Your Journey

What Does a Graphic Designer Do? And How to Start Your Journey

Updated on 06 January, 2025

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• 9 min read

Table of Contents

What Does a Graphic Designer Do?
Requirements to Become a Graphic Designer
Types of Graphic Design Jobs
Where Do Graphic Designers Work?
How to Become a Graphic Designer
Career Growth Opportunities for Graphic Designers
Become a Designer with upGrad

Graphic design is everywhere you look. It’s the design of logos on your favorite brands, the ads on your phone, and the posters you see in stores. Graphic design is important in many industries like advertising, branding, and e-commerce. It combines images, colors, and text to tell a story or deliver information.

Who Is a Graphic Designer?

A graphic designer is the person who creates these visuals. They work on designing logos, social media posts, and website layouts. They often work with marketing teams to make sure the designs match what the company wants to say.

Why Pursue a Career in Graphic Design?

Graphic design is in demand. Many industries, like advertising and tech, need graphic designers. It’s a career where you can express your creativity, work on exciting projects, and grow your skills. If you love art and design, graphic design can be a rewarding path to follow.

But what does a graphic designer’s role look like? What does a graphic designer do?

Want to create better designs? Learn how Design Thinking can help you bring fresh ideas to life: What Is Design Thinking?.

What Does a Graphic Designer Do?

Graphic designers create visuals that communicate ideas and messages. Their work helps businesses stand out and connect with their audience. Here’s what a graphic designer typically does:

Create visual assets for branding and marketing, like banners and posters.
Design user interfaces (UI) and user experiences (UX) for websites and apps.
Develop logos, brochures, and social media graphics.
Collaborate with clients and teams to ensure the designs match their goals.
Stay updated on design trends and tools to create fresh and modern designs.

Example:

The designer creates banners, posters, and flyers to promote the coffee shop’s grand opening. These visuals attract customers and make the brand memorable.
For the coffee shop’s website or mobile app, the designer creates a user-friendly interface where customers can view the menu, place orders, or check promotions.
The designer designs a unique logo that represents the coffee shop’s vibe and mission. They also create brochures with detailed product descriptions and eye-catching social media posts to engage customers online.
The designer works closely with the coffee shop owner and marketing team to understand their vision. They ensure the designs match the brand’s goals and appeal to the target audience.

Requirements to Become a Graphic Designer

Skills Needed

Creativity and Problem-Solving
Attention to Detail
Communication and Storytelling Skills
Time Management and Organization
Adaptability to Different Projects
Basic Understanding of Marketing Concepts

Tools to Master

Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign
Canva
Figma and Sketch
CorelDRAW
Procreate (for digital illustrations)
Microsoft PowerPoint (for presentation designs)

Educational Requirements

Diploma, Degree, or Certification in Graphic Design
Knowledge of Color Theory, Typography, and Layout Design
Basic Understanding of User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Principles
Familiarity with Printing and Production Processes

Types of Graphic Design Jobs

Graphic design jobs are expected to grow by 3% globally by 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What kind of roles exist in this creative field, and which one suits you best?

Here are some common graphic design jobs:

Job Title	Required Skills	Who It’s For	Average Salary (India)
Brand Identity Designer	Creativity, typography, branding tools.	Those who enjoy working on visual identities for businesses.	₹4–7 lakhs per year.
UX/UI Designer	Wireframing, prototyping, user research.	People who love tech and creating smooth user experiences.	₹6–10 lakhs per year.
Packaging Designer	Illustration, layout design, color theory.	Designers who like combining creativity with functionality.	₹4–6 lakhs per year.
Advertising and Marketing Designer	Photoshop, creativity, understanding marketing.	Those who enjoy working in fast-paced environments.	₹3–6 lakhs per year.
Illustrator/Animator	Drawing, animation tools, storytelling.	Creative individuals who love drawing and storytelling.	₹5–8 lakhs per year.

Where Do Graphic Designers Work?

Where do graphic designers work, or which industries hire them? Do they work in offices or from home? What kind of companies need their skills? Graphic designers have many options, from full-time jobs to freelancing opportunities.

Industries Hiring Graphic Designers

Graphic designers are needed in almost every industry. Some of the most common ones include:

Advertising Agencies: Creating campaigns for brands and products.
E-commerce Companies: Designing website layouts, banners, and product pages.
Entertainment and Media: Working on posters, album covers, or video graphics.
Tech Startups and IT Companies: Designing app interfaces, websites, and branding.

Curious about how graphic design connects to product creation? Explore the role of a Product Designer: What Is a Product Designer?.

Work Environments

Graphic designers can work in different setups based on their preferences and goals:

In-House Teams: Work directly for a company to create designs just for them.
Design Studios: Join a team of designers working on projects for various clients.
Freelancing: Work independently for different clients, offering flexibility.
Remote Work Setups: Design from home or anywhere, connecting with clients or teams online.

How to Become a Graphic Designer

Dreaming of a career in graphic design? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you become a graphic designer:

1. Pursue an Education

While a degree isn’t always required, 68% of graphic designers hold a bachelor’s degree, and 23% have an associate degree (source: Zippia). A formal education helps you build a strong foundation in design principles and gives you opportunities to start building your portfolio.

Look for programs that offer courses in design theory, digital tools, and hands-on projects. If you can’t attend a full program, online certifications like the Google UX Design Certificate or Adobe product certifications are great alternatives.

2. Gain Real-World Experience

Practical experience makes a huge difference when starting out. Here are some ways to get it:

Join an internship and learn from experienced designers.
Volunteer your skills to create designs for local nonprofits.
Take short courses on specific design topics to expand your skills.
Join professional organizations like AIGA to network and access learning resources.

3. Master Design Tools

Focus on mastering Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Figma, or Canva. Employers often list these as must-have skills in job descriptions.

Keep updating your skills by staying aware of industry trends like motion graphics, AI-powered design tools, and sustainability in design.

4. Build Your Portfolio

Include your best work, like logos, posters, and digital designs, to impress potential employers or clients. If you lack professional experience, work on personal projects, mock assignments, or freelance gigs to build it.

Make your portfolio accessible online using platforms like Behance, Dribbble, or your own website.

5. Network and Apply for Jobs

Attend events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and engage in online communities. These efforts can lead to referrals and job opportunities.

Start applying for entry-level roles like Junior Graphic Designer or Design Assistant. Freelance opportunities are also a great way to gain experience and grow your career.

Career Growth Opportunities for Graphic Designers

Graphic design offers many career paths, with roles becoming more specialized and better paid as you grow. Here’s a breakdown of the opportunities:

Entry-Level Roles

Junior Graphic Designer: Create simple designs and assist in projects while learning from senior designers.
Salary: ₹2–4 lakhs per year.
Design Assistant: Support senior designers by preparing layouts, making edits, and brainstorming ideas.
Salary: ₹2–3.5 lakhs per year.
Illustration Artist: Create custom illustrations for websites, books, and digital platforms.
Salary: ₹2–4.5 lakhs per year.

Mid-Level Roles

Graphic Designer: Work on branding, marketing materials, and other creative projects independently.
Salary: ₹4–7 lakhs per year.
UX/UI Designer: Design user-friendly experiences for websites, apps, and software.
Salary: ₹6–10 lakhs per year.
Motion Graphics Designer: Create animated graphics for videos, advertisements, and social media.
Salary: ₹5–8 lakhs per year.
Packaging Designer: Design attractive and functional packaging for products.
Salary: ₹4–6 lakhs per year.

Advanced Roles

Art Director: Lead a team of designers and oversee creative projects.
Salary: ₹8–15 lakhs per year.
Creative Director: Set the overall creative vision for campaigns and design strategies.
Salary: ₹15–25 lakhs per year.
Brand Manager: Oversee brand identity, ensuring designs align with the company’s image.
Salary: ₹10–18 lakhs per year.
Design Strategist: Combine creativity with business goals to plan effective design strategies.
Salary: ₹10–20 lakhs per year.

Freelancing Opportunities

Branding Consultant: Help businesses create logos, brand identities, and marketing materials.
Independent Graphic Designer: Take on varied design projects for startups, agencies, or small businesses.
Visual Content Creator: Design engaging social media graphics and content for online platforms.

Have big graphic design ideas? See how Project Design can help you turn them into reality: What Is Project Design?.

Become a Designer with upGrad

Are you looking to become a graphic designer or improve your design skills? UpGrad offers a variety of courses to help you grow in the design field. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, we have comprehensive courses that cover everything you need.

Comprehensive Courses

Learn design fundamentals, like color theory, typography, and layout.
Get hands-on experience with advanced design tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma.
Explore specialized design topics like UX/UI design and user experience research.

Certifications

Earn verified credentials in graphic design and related fields.
Boost your career with recognized certifications from top institutions.

Check out some of our popular courses:

Gain the skills to become a professional designer!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What qualifications do I need to become a graphic designer?

You don’t need a formal degree, but you should know design principles and tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. Taking courses or certifications can give you a strong foundation.

2. Can I become a graphic designer without a degree?

Yes, many designers are self-taught or learn through online resources and practice. A good portfolio is more important than a degree.

3. Which tools are most important for graphic designers?

Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign are widely used in the industry. Beginners can start with Canva for simpler designs.

4. How do I build a strong design portfolio?

Create projects like logos, posters, or website mockups to showcase your skills. Include only your best work and organize it neatly online.

5. What’s the difference between graphic design and UX/UI design?

Graphic design focuses on visuals like logos and posters, while UX/UI design improves how users interact with digital products. Both require creativity but serve different purposes.

6. Are internships necessary to start a graphic design career?

Internships aren’t required but can give you hands-on experience and help you build your portfolio. They also offer valuable industry connections.

7. What’s the typical salary for a graphic designer in India?

Graphic designers in India earn an average of ₹3–5 lakhs per year. Your salary depends on your skills, experience, and location.

8. What industries hire graphic designers the most?

Advertising, marketing, and media companies hire graphic designers frequently. Tech and publishing industries also need design professionals.

9. How do I stay updated on graphic design trends?

Follow design blogs, join online forums, and explore platforms like Behance and Dribbble. Staying curious and experimenting helps too.

10. Are certifications enough to start a career in graphic design?

Certifications help build skills, but your portfolio and real-world experience matter more. Employers value creativity and results over formal education.

11. Can graphic designers work remotely or freelance?

Yes, graphic design is flexible, and many designers work from home or freelance. This allows you to take on projects from clients worldwide.

12. What’s the future of graphic design with AI tools?

AI tools can speed up repetitive tasks but can’t replace human creativity. Designers who embrace AI while staying creative will thrive.

13. Is a creative background necessary to become a graphic designer?

No, anyone can learn graphic design with practice and dedication. Passion for design and the willingness to improve are more important.

14. What are some beginner-friendly projects for building a portfolio?

Start with designing logos, social media posts, or posters. Mock advertisements or website layouts are also great for practice.

15. How long does it take to become proficient in graphic design?

With consistent practice, you can gain basic skills in 6 months to a year. Mastery takes more time but depends on your effort.

Source:

https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/brand-designer-salary-SRCH_KO0,14.htm
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https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/packaging-designer-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/advertising-designer-salary-SRCH_KO0,20.htm
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