A graphic designer is responsible for creating design solutions that have a high visual impact. The role involves listening to clients and understanding their needs before making design decisions. Their designs are required for a huge variety of products and activities, such as websites, advertising, books, magazines, posters, computer games, product packaging, exhibitions and displays, corporate communications and corporate identity, i.e. giving organisations a visual 'brand'.
A graphic designer works to a brief agreed with the client, creative director or account manager. They develop creative ideas and concepts, choosing the appropriate media and style to meet the client's objectives. The work demands creative flair, up-to-date knowledge of industry software and a professional approach to time, costs and deadlines.

Tasks:

1. Liaising with clients to determine their requirements and budget
2. Designing client proposals from typesetting through to design, print and production
3. Working with clients, briefing and advising them with regard to design style, format, print production and timescales
4. Developing concepts, graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and websites
5. Determining size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and font style and size
6. Preparing rough drafts of material based on an agreed brief
7. Reviewing final layouts and suggesting improvements if required
8. Liaising with external printers on a regular basis to ensure deadlines are met and material is printed to the highest quality

Key skills for graphic designer:

• Excellent IT skills, especially with design and photo-editing software
• Exceptional creativity and innovation
• Excellent time management and organisational skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• An understanding of the latest trends and their role within a commercial environment
• Professional approach to time, costs and deadlines

Average salary (2013):

The United Kingdom: £20,699 per year
The United States of America: $44,150 per year
Australia: AU$48,198 per year

Qualifications and training required:

Employers generally look for graphic designers with a bachelor's degree. Aspiring designers can enter into a fine arts program in graphic design at a university or college. The classes for this degree program include both hands-on studio work and classroom lectures. Coursework is made up of classes in design principles, computerized design, printing techniques, Web site design and studio art. Aspiring graphic designers can also earn a certificate or associate's degree in graphic design. These programs can take anywhere from two to three years to complete. These graphic design programs focus on hands-on technical skills.
Continuing education is essential for success in this field. Designers must stay abreast of the changes and evolutions of commonly used technologies and tools. Graphic designers must also have strong portfolios that showcase examples of their best work, which employers generally consider during the hiring process.