Graphic designers communicate ideas and information by combining visuals and text, creating a wide range of assets that can include everything from brand logos to digital marketing material, to physical adverts and sales collateral. They can work in any type of organisation across the private, public, and third sectors, often as part of the marketing team.

Expected job role tasks

Given that graphic designers create visuals for both digital and physical platforms, the role can have wide-ranging responsibilities. These will typically include designing assets such as webpages, logos, reports, sales and marketing materials, magazine covers, advertisements, and more. These assets may be designed using computer software or by hand. It is rare for the graphic designer to identify a need for visual assets and create them independently. Instead, they are more likely to receive a brief from their line manager, a different department, or a client. In this case, they must be able to dig into the requirements of the project, which will often involve translating briefs and ideas from stakeholders who are not from a graphic design background. They must work with their contact to fulfil the agreed brief and carry out any amendments until all parties are satisfied with the results. As well as creating visual elements, they must effectively utilise text to effectively communicate messaging, choosing the most appropriate font type and size to complement the image, ensure readability, and fit the project’s style and tone requirements. In some cases, they may even create a new style guide or “brand bible” to ensure consistent creation of future assets. They also need to pay close attention to detail, ensuring the assets they product are free of errors.

Primary function

The graphic designer role is primarily about understanding the most effective, impactful way to communicate concepts.They may do this through an array of techniques, from creating bespoke graphics by hand or using computer software, or by making use of existing assets and setting them out in an aesthetically pleasing, engaging way.

Necessary hard/soft skills

Graphic designers are almost always expected to be skilled in using graphic design tools, of which the Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and more) is by far the most common. They must be artistically talented, either when using computer programs or designing by hand, and should understand colour theory and typography. Beyond these technical requirements, graphic designers must also possess an array of software skills. They must be strong listeners and communicators, capable of asking intelligent questions that enable them to bring ideas to life in a way that meets the expectations of their organisation or client. Graphic designers often work with other members of the marketing team, collaborating with copywriters or content marketers to blend textual and visual elements into a single asset. This requires them to be excellent team workers. Their time management skills must be strong, as they will often find themselves juggling multiple projects at once, often with tight deadlines.

Qualifications required

Entry to the profession is open to non-graduates, although candidates with a degree in graphic design or a related field will stand a better chance of getting a job. Candidates will ideally have professional experience in a graphic designer role, or at minimum, a portfolio of coursework or from projects completed during internships or work experience placements. It may also be beneficial to acquire a certification in tools like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop.