A: As a graphic designer, I create visual communications like logos, advertisements,
animations, and illustrations to convey ideas and information visually. I combine
creative and artistic skills.
Q: How long have you been doing this role for?
A: I've been a graphic designer for a few years, since 2021.
Q: How did you get to this point in your career?
A: I studied graphic design in school and built up my skills and portfolio over time. I
applied for junior roles at design agencies and worked my way up.
Q: When it comes to remuneration, what are your three B’s? (Base, Bonus, Benefits?)
A: For remuneration, my base salary is really good. It’s currently in £95k. I receive an
annual bonus based on performance and that varies year on year. My benefits include
health insurance, retirement contributions, and paid time off.
Q: I’m not going to ask you who you work for, but, what industry is your company in?
A: I work at a design agency that serves clients in various industries. We do graphic
design work for marketing campaigns, branding, publications, events, and more.
Q: When it comes to work flexibility, is your work primarily office-based, fully remote, or a
mix of both? Which do you prefer? Does your company allow you to be flexible?
A: My work is a mix of in office and remote. I go to the office for collaborative meetings
and work sessions. But I also have flexibility to work from home when I need focused
time. I like the combination.
Q: What does an average week or a typical day look like for you? Can you walk me
through your day? What time do you arrive and start at work, what are your main
tasks/responsibilities, who do you interact with, what meetings do you attend, etc.?
A: A typical day starts around 8:30 AM when I commute to the office. We have a
morning meeting at 10:30 to align on priorities. Then I'll work on current design projects
- maybe creating a logo or laying out a magazine ad. I collaborate with other designers
and take feedback from clients. I take a lunch break around 1 PM. More heads-down
design work in the afternoon. I try to leave by 6 PM if possible.
Q: What does a typical day look like when things are going well vs a more
challenging/stressful day?
A: On good days, I'm in the flow creating new design work. On stressful days, there may
be tight deadlines or challenges getting feedback and approvals from clients.
Q: What skills or knowledge are most important for your day-to-day work?
A: The most important skills are creative thinking, communication, and expertise in
design software and tools.
Q: What are some examples of recent accomplishments or contributions you've made in
this role?
A: Recent accomplishments were rebranding a client's visual identity and being
promoted to senior designer.
Q: Do you have a supportive manager and do you feel valued?
A: My manager provides guidance but also gives me autonomy. I feel valued for my
contributions.
Q: How much time do you spend collaborating with colleagues vs working
independently?
A: It's a mix - I collaborate closely with my design team but also have independent work.
Q: Is there anything you wish you would have known before starting this role?
A: I wish I had known how much communication with clients would be part of the job.
Q: What do you hate most about your role?
A: The tight deadlines can be frustrating.
Q: What do you love most about your role?
A: I love the creative process of problem solving and designing appealing visuals.
Q: What’s the next role for you and when do you hope to achieve this?
A: In the next few years I hope to become an Art Director leading projects.
Q: Is your next role going to be with the same company or a different one?
A: I plan to progress within my current company for now.
Q: What’s one piece of advice you could give to someone who aspires to reach your
position?
A: My advice is to develop your style and skills but also be open to feedback and
collaboration. Communication is key.
Q: It’s Day 1 for someone in your role. What one piece of advice would you give them to
succeed?
A: Don't be afraid to ask questions! Whether it's clarifying a project brief, getting feedback on a
design, or asking colleagues for help with a technical issue - don't assume you can or should
figure it all out on your own.
The people you work with have valuable insights and experience to share. Asking questions
shows you want to do your best work and continue growing. Admitting what you don't know yet
is a strength, not a weakness.
The other key is believing in your own creative vision and skills. Trust your instincts and design
ability, while also taking constructive criticism and mentorship from others. Finding the right
balance of conviction in your own ideas and openness to feedback will help you create great
work and thrive in your role over time. Have confidence in yourself on this new role journey!
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