Lessons I Wish I Knew When I Started as a Designer
Introduction
When I look back at the beginning of my graphic design career, I see a mix of excitement, ambition, and a bit of impatience. I couldn’t wait to move to a big city and start my career in advertising. I spent the entire summer attending portfolio reviews, eager to land my first job, build a name for myself, and start creating impactful branding and marketing campaigns. I was fortunate to start in advertising, a fast-paced industry known for its high expectations and competitive nature.
Starting in Advertising
My first role in advertising was exhilarating. The environment was electric—tight deadlines, demanding clients, and constant creative challenges. I was thrown into projects that required quick thinking and adaptability, helping me develop strong problem-solving skills early on.
At agencies, I learned how to concept and the importance of brand storytelling—understanding how every brand has a message and how my role as a designer was to visually bring that message to life. I also learned how to balance creativity with strategic thinking, always considering the audience and business objectives.
However, it wasn’t long before I realized I had chosen a side of the industry that didn’t feel right for me. At the time, I thought, "No big deal, I’ll move on," but I quickly found myself pigeonholed as an Art Director in traditional advertising. The frustration of knowing I had made a misstep but not knowing how to pivot weighed heavily on me.
It took time, quitting my job to freelance, and recreating my portfolio to redefine my career path. Those years of freelancing gave me the variety I craved and the ability to explore different design disciplines. I vividly remember the thrill of becoming a full-time freelance designer in New York City, working on diverse projects and even being brought in for high-profile pitches. That experience shaped me in ways I couldn’t have imagined and prepared me for the career I have today.
Every so often, I think back to a particular portfolio review I attended. A Creative Director stopped at my case, carefully combing through each board. Finally, he looked up at me and said, "Nice work, but you seem more like a designer than an ad guy."
"No way," I thought at the time, dismissing his comment. But over the years, his words stayed with me. Looking back, I realize he gave me invaluable feedback that I wasn’t ready to hear. While I don’t regret my path, I sometimes wonder where I’d be if I had had the humility to listen to his advice.
The Danger of Rushing Your Career
Parents may not love this advice, but it’s something I wish I had understood earlier—there’s no need to rush into your first job. One of the biggest mistakes I made was being too eager to land a position. I believed that securing a role at a well-known agency would be the ultimate achievement, but I quickly learned that early career choices can define your trajectory. That first job can shape your future opportunities, and before you know it, you can be stuck in a niche you didn’t intentionally choose.
If I had thought more about this, I would have spent more time researching the agencies interviewing me. I would have examined their work and asked myself, "Is this the kind of work I want to be doing in one or two years?" Instead, I was so focused on gaining independence—my first paycheck, my first apartment—that I didn’t consider the long-term impact of my choice.
Lessons for Aspiring Designers
1. Take Time to Explore Before Settling
Don’t rush into the first opportunity that comes your way. Research agencies and studios before interviewing. Look at their work and ask yourself if it aligns with your creative goals.
2. Learn to Say No Early
It’s tempting to say yes to every project, especially early in your career. But not every opportunity is the right one. Learning to set boundaries will help you grow in the direction you truly want.
3. Seek Mentorship and Community
Connect with mentors and join design communities. Surrounding yourself with experienced professionals can help you navigate challenges, make informed career decisions, and avoid common pitfalls.
4. Don’t Let Perfectionism Paralyze You
I used to obsess over every pixel, delaying projects because I wanted them to be "perfect." But perfection is a myth. Focus on progress and continuous improvement instead.
What Has Changed and What Stays the Same
Design tools and trends evolve rapidly. When I started, the industry was shifting towards digital, and today, AI-generated design is becoming more prevalent. However, some things never change—storytelling remains key, communication with clients is crucial, and understanding your audience will always be the foundation of great design.
Conclusion
Your design career is a journey, not a race. Take your time to explore, learn, and make intentional decisions. The more experiences you gather, the more equipped you’ll be to create work that truly resonates.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change my journey, but I do wish I had been more patient with myself. If you’re just starting, trust the process and know that the best work comes from growth, exploration, and time.
Photo by Anna Shvets: https://www.pexels.com/photo/silicon-supplement-in-a-red-surface-3683084/