Should you work for free when you are starting out in the competitive world of graphic design? This is a two sided question for many young graphic designers who are just starting out. With a highly competitive environment, young designers must often choose to work for free in internships and other projects simply to get their foot in the door. Here are some reasons why gaining experience as a graphic designer is important and why you may want to work for free for a short time.
1) Getting the knowledge and experience you need.
A compelling reason why you may want to work for free is that you must learn as much as possible about graphic design before you decide to make graphic design the sole focus of your career. You will save a lot of time and energy learning this knowledge early on.
2) How other people become graphic designers.
The funny thing about becoming a graphic designer is that many people stumble into the career by accident. Many people naively enter the field because of their love of media and art. Many people also get their first taste of graphic design when they volunteer to make a school flyer or a newsletter. So, in fact, many people start in graphic design by taking on projects for free, either for themselves or for others.
3) What you need to become a good graphic designer
What is the most important thing you need to become a good graphic designer? Truthfully, what you need most is experience. Do you need a college degree or a certificate to prove that you are a skilled graphic designer? Becoming a professional graphic designer does not always mean getting a certificate, degree or postgraduate education in graphic design. Many graphic design artists split their time on many projects, including illustrators, writers, animator, cartoonists, typesetters and painters.
4) Speaking the language of graphic design.
Formal education or no formal education, all graphic designers speak the same basic language and vocabulary. It is important you learn this language to establish yourself as a graphic designer. How can you learn this language? By becoming a graphic designer. There is better training than on the job training, which is a compelling reason for taking on work for free. Graphic design is both a business and an art, and it has never been a particularly easy thing to do well. Any experience you can get is well worth the trouble.
5) Build up your portfolio with free work.
Even though you are not getting paid, you are still getting something in return. Working for free allows you to build up your portfolio, which is very important if you plan to seek paid, salaried positions. Many times, working for free as an intern or volunteer, allows you access to software and equipment that you d otherwise not have access to. You will gain experience to use many different technology and equipment, which is important to build your portfolio. Everything you do for free allows you to put it on your resume.
6) How long should you work for free?
Working for free is a good idea if you are a student or just starting out, but it is not something you should do for a long period of time. Your objective is to gain experience and practice in other words, you should expect something in return. If you are working for free but are not gaining knowledge or work samples, then it may be time to move on.
Author Resource:
Visit Brian Scott's website, http://www.FastCashDesign.com and learn about making money as a graphic designer. For graphic design jobs, visit http://www.GraphicDesignFreelanceJobs.com
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