I'm majoring in graphic design with a minor in multimedia. Ultimately I would like to have a job when I graduate in 2 years (preferably not at Wal-Mart), but since I have limited professional experience I am seeking advice.

I figure the obvious ones are working hard to make sure your education doesn't go to waste, having an outstanding portfolio, and actually graduating. Maybe this question is misplaced or too broad, but we will soon see.

I don't have a design job, nor am I much of an artist (I'm admin here for the behind the scenes stuff, not my proficiency in art), but I think that you need a small, yet broad portfolio to show off your range of skills. Don't be afraid to sell yourself by listing in your cover letter some skills you have that are relevant to the field you're looking for. Try and look for an internship or something, where you'll work with them, learn and gain professional experience and eventually that internship will either look damn good on your CV or turn itself into a decent job with the same group.

I'm not sure that's much help, but good luck either way.

Don't suck at life.

mike wrote:

Don't suck at life.

Seems easy enough haha, and thanks Jake.

Network, network, network. It really comes down to the people you know that can hook you up. I suggest applying for a design position at your school if possible, or visit the office of career services if you school has one for advice and internships. Having years of experience using software is also important so make personal projects to sharpen your skills.

If all else fails, get an online portfolio and use facebook/twitter for exposure.

BrianPhilip wrote:

If all else fails, get an online portfolio and use facebook/twitter for exposure.

This should usually come first, not as a last option.

True, but I am not a fan of facebook or twitter. You'd have to spam your friends and make sure people you know would check out your work. I would recommend behance.net since it is all art networking and has job ops posted. Even deviantart.com to a certain degree.

Previously edited by BrianPhilip (December 21st, 2010 10:30 AM)

No need to spam anyone or take care of it, if they are interested they will come by themselves. Behance is indeed the best like you mentioned. But deviantART is a complete shithole of porn these days, I wouldn't recommend it at all anymore.

BrianPhilip wrote:

Network, network, network. It really comes down to the people you know that can hook you up. I suggest applying for a design position at your school if possible, or visit the office of career services if you school has one for advice and internships. Having years of experience using software is also important so make personal projects to sharpen your skills.

If all else fails, get an online portfolio and use facebook/twitter for exposure.

true. in this day and age its all about who you know more than what you know.