Stepping into the design world can be intimidating. It is a competitive space where one's success is based on creativity, skills, networking, and community engagement. Over the years, I have learned with my graphic design experience that every design project is an opportunity to develop a work of art that lasts for generations. Designers have the chance to create works that will play a significant role in helping other people network and form connections with one another.  The significant and challenging nature of design can make the pursuit of a design career a nerve-wracking experience.  Therefore, I wanted to share a few things that helped me begin my graphic design journey. 

  1. Take the risk. 

Take the leap. Share your work with others and inform people about your services. Sharing your artwork for the first time or offering to design for a client is an excellent first step to begin your design business.

  2. Develop Your Unique Process. 

Every designer has their own unique design process. Establishing a solid design process for when you are working with clients helps to keep yourself organized. It also helps to streamline your design process by developing actionable steps to follow and meet your client's needs. 

  3. Collaborate and Collaborate Often. 

Never be afraid to ask questions.  A designer's role is to make the client's vision come to life. Therefore, ask as many questions as needed throughout your design process to ensure that you are meeting the client's needs.  You can also collaborate with fellow designers. Sometimes working with other designers helps provide inspiration or critiques which improve your work.

  4. Walk-in Confidence. 

Be confident in your work.  When someone requests a design from you, they trust you with their vision.  Therefore, being confident in your skills and showing your clients that you can be trusted with their vision is essential. 

Those are just a few things that helped me begin my design journey. Entering into the design world is a fun, challenging, and collaborative process. Enjoy the journey and don't be afraid to make mistakes its all apart of the learning process! I encourage you to take the leap and begin your own design adventure!