In the latest career profile from Insight Edge, we take a trip into the ever-changing world of graphic design, and feature an interview with freelance graphic designer Josh Pinard.
The profession of graphic design is defined as the craft of creating visual content to communicate messages to specific social group. In practice, it involves creating eye-catching visual content using typography and pictures, which is used to engage an audience through a variety of mediums, including social media, websites, packaging, magazines and posters.
A survey by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) completed prior to the Coronavirus pandemic found that the UK has the largest design industry in Europe and second largest design sector in the world, with around 100,000 people currently working in the graphic design sector. The industry contributes over £80 billion to the UK economy each year and is growing at four times the rate of the overall UK economy.
Josh Pinard is a freelance graphic designer, currently undertaking projects for a sports media agency. One of his attest projects is producing graphics for the AbuDhabi T10 Cricket League. When asked about the best things about working in the graphic design industry, Josh explains:
“For me it’s being able to work in an area that I enjoy so much. I have loved sport since I was at a young age, so being able to get involved with something I really like helps me create some dynamic and eye-catching designs for people to enjoy. I love being able to work across a wide range of projects and sports so it really helps me enjoy my work.”
Josh is currently in the placement year of his product design degree, which he is studying at Nottingham Trent University. Asked what the typical day looks like for him at the moment, he explains:
“I’m a product design student studying at Nottingham Trent University but I’m currently in my placement year. I have been freelancing in graphic design until recently where I have started a new job as a Graphic Designer for a sports media agency. My average day would start with a zoom call at 9am (and a strong coffee!). I then work across various projects ranging from research, content creation for social media and designing for service advertisement.”
Graphic designers produce content to a brief, which is agreed in advance either with a client or account manager. Asked about the key to being successful in graphic design, Josh says:
“Communication is key. You want to be able to produce a design that conveys the message you want and will also engage the consumer. Being able to communicate effectively with a client and team is vital to being successful. A good workflow and organisational skills are also crucial. Increased workflow really helps when creating a design.”
Graphic design work requires creativity, innovation and flair, to develop new ideas and create eye-catching content. It also needs good technical skills to stay up-to-date with the latest design software and tools. In addition, good time-management is crucial, to ensure projects are delivered on time. Josh explains that this can be one of the most challenging parts of his role:
“With multiple projects on the go at one time, it can be challenging to stay on top of it all and keep a fixed schedule. I always want to produce the best work I can for every client which can take up a large portion of time.”
As a student gaining valuable experience in the graphic design industry whilst completing his degree, Josh has plenty of career options available to him. When asked about his career goals, Josh explains:
“I would love to continue in the route of sport graphic design for now. Further into the future, it would be a dream to start my own agency and work alongside some of the biggest names in sport.”
As for the best bit of career advice that Josh has received so far, he reveals:
“People may bring you down and criticise your designs but you need to find your flair. It’s all a learning curve which takes its time. As soon as you find your flair you are destined to succeed. Don’t let people tell you otherwise.”
Insight Edge provides personalised career guidance, giving you the knowledge and advice you need to make informed career decisions. If you’re considering a new career path and are ready to make the first step, take a look at the services we offer.