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What Do Advertising Designers Do?
You may not be thinking about changing your phone service—until you see a full-color spread with a catchy slogan and photos of sleek, high-tech gadgets that could be yours, if you'd switch carriers. Living in the modern world, chances are good that you've had this experience at least once. You can't turn on the TV, listen to the radio or even walk down the street without someone trying to sell you something. And good advertising has a way of sticking with you, whether it's a memorable jingle, a clever catch-phrase or a beautiful image.
Advertising involves psychology, marketing and creativity. While advertising design professionals concentrate their efforts on the creative end of the spectrum, psychology and marketing often spill over into their everyday work.
Design Jobs at Ad Agencies
Designers who work for advertising agencies usually work in one of three positions: graphic designer, art director or creative director. Small firms may work mostly with freelance or contract graphic designers, or they may combine roles. Large firms will likely have fully-staffed creative departments.
Graphic designers work on layouts and design elements for ads in various mediums.
Art directors supervise both staff and contract graphic designers. They coordinate the efforts of several people on a project.
Creative directors manage all the parts of the creative department. From the ad copy and sound elements to the graphics and layout, creative directors perform quality control on all pieces of a project.
Skills Needed
School Spotlight
Study advertising design at an Art Institute near you. With online degree offerings and locations nationwide, you may not have to travel far to benefit from an education at one of these well-known art schools. Find a location near you.
Artistic Ability – Artistic skill is the most obvious trait that advertising designers should possess. Having a good portfolio that demonstrates your skill and creativity will help you get noticed by prospective employers.
Communication Skills – Advertising designers also need good communication skills. Knowing your target audience and how to talk to them is an important part of advertising design. Your marketing skill and knowledge of customer psychology will play an important role in helping you get a message out to consumers.
Competitive Attitude – Aspiring ad designers also need to have a competitive edge. The advertising industry is highly competitive—possibly even bordering on cutthroat. One ad can make or break a career. While the pressure may not be as extreme for designers as it is in other ad agency positions, you will most likely be working under deadlines with people who are under pressure. You will need to be able to thrive in that environment.
Is Advertising Design for You?
If you're looking for an art career that will put you in the heart of the business world, advertising design may be a great job for you. Make use of your artistic talent and your marketing know-how in an exciting advertising design career.
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