Breaking Down Stereotypes About Future Design Careers- Starting a Career in Design

It's possible that you've heard it said that design is a "soft" career, unlike software, marketing, or engineering. But if you believe it is simple to become a designer, you are mistaken.

Design as a profession is still regarded as "offbeat." While a creative youngster may be encouraged to pursue a profession in design, many parents believe that the "topper" child must take a more "normal" job route. That is an urban legend. Especially now, when visual communication is typically the throbbing core of any service rather than simply the smart packaging that comes at the end.

Content Highlights

• Common Myths related to Design Careers
• How to Start a Career in Design?
• Top Design Colleges in India

Common Myths Related to Design Careers

There are several myths and misconceptions concerning design jobs. Here are a few common examples, along with the truth behind them:

Design is Solely for Artists.

While creative aptitude is an advantage in design, it is not the primary necessity. Designers must be able to successfully communicate, interact with teams, and think critically. Only 28% of design students major in fine arts, according to the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The remaining 72% are from different majors such as business, engineering, and computer science. This demonstrates that design is a career available to anyone with a diverse set of talents and interests.

Opportunities for a Design Career are Scarce.

Design is a broad discipline with several employment options. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in design occupations is predicted to expand at a greater rate than the national average from 2019 through 2029. Graphic design, web design, industrial design, and interior design are all prominent design occupations. Designers can also work in a variety of areas such as advertising, technology, fashion, and architecture. This demonstrates that there are several chances for designers to establish a niche that matches their interests and talents.

Design is a Solitary Profession.

While designers often work alone, they also collaborate with clients, team members, and other stakeholders. Design is a collaborative process that frequently includes iteration and feedback.

Design is only about Beauty.

While design certainly entails aesthetics, it is far more than merely making things appear nice. Designers are problem solvers who utilize their creative abilities to tackle complicated challenges and improve the operation of goods, systems, and surroundings. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual income for industrial designers (who create things) was $71,600 in 2019, whereas the median annual wage for graphic designers was $52,110. These figures illustrate that designers are well-paid professionals who are regarded for their problem-solving and innovative skills.

Designers only Create Physical Items.

While designers work on physical things such as packaging or consumer goods, they also create digital products and experiences such as websites, applications, and interactive media. Designers also work on branding and marketing materials, such as logos and advertising campaigns.

Designers Exclusively Work on Digital Projects.

Designers can engage on a variety of projects, including digital, print, packaging, environmental, and others. The tools and techniques employed may vary based on the project, but the design process and ideas are universal.

Design is Not a Stable Profession.

While the design sector is competitive, evidence suggests that it is a secure and rewarding career option. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for design jobs in 2019 was $66,590, which was more than the overall median wage ($39,810). Furthermore, many designers may work independently or develop their own enterprises, giving them more control over their employment. According to the research, design is a solid and rewarding career option with multiple prospects for growth and stability.

It is not Intended for Intelligent and Gifted Students.

Contrary to popular belief, design is not only for those who lack intelligence or sophistication. Design is a skill that you can't learn from books alone; it requires logical thinking and a keen mind. It is a constantly evolving field with unique difficulties. Students identify the issue, come up with a solution, and implement it. It necessitates reflective learning, flexibility, and critical thinking. Click here to discover more about design education.

Students Studying Science or Business are Unlikely to Pursue a Career in Design.

It is not true; many science and business students pursue design degrees. Design is a broad field with numerous subfields. Many courses, including architecture, UX/UI design, B. Fashion Tech, web development, are popular among students who study science and commerce.

Design jobs are Hard to Come By.

Designers are in great demand across various sectors, and the field is anticipated to expand more in the future. There are several possibilities for designers in a range of sectors, ranging from online and app design to product and industrial design. Click here to learn more about the different varieties of careers in design.

How to Start a Career in Design?

The creative professions are notoriously competitive, and landing your first design job may be a minefield. Here are a few pointers to help you arm yourself with the necessary tools to land a job at a design firm.

• Upgrade your Portfolio
• Creative Networking
• Use your Creativity

Upgrade your Portfolio

You must, first and foremost, polish your design résumé. We're largely talking digital here, however you might need to print off some of your work to bring to an interview. Make sure to showcase your greatest work in this area. Clear away any unnecessary works-in-progress that don't present you in a positive light since poor or incomplete content will only make you appear unprofessional.

Creative networking

Although the thought of networking may not excite you, it is a crucial technique to spread the word about you and your abilities. Online networking has become much simpler thanks to social media, but you still need to utilize it wisely. Make sure to keep your social media channels professional if you're going to add social media links to your website. Be authentic, but dress it up a bit, and keep the conversation on your business or industry-related subjects.

Use your Creativity

You must approach job hunting and apply for positions as an independent designer. Prove that you embody the creativity you're attempting to convey. Let your unique set of skills guide your output. Make your graphic design as visually appealing as you can. Pick out a pencil and some paper if you're an illustrator, and create something that embodies your aesthetic. Motion graphics-savvy? Start by creating the ideal showreel that showcases both your talents and your visual background.

Top 10 design colleges in India

India's design industry has grown over the years, and the Indian government has boosted its support for design education. The future of design education in India is promising. If you're unsure of which college you want to attend to pursue a design degree, here is a list of the top design schools in India, along with reasons why you should pick each one.