I've been doing graphic design for 5 years as an in-house designer for retail. I was laid off earlier this year due to restructuring. While I was in shock of the news I was also genuinely burnt out from working there. I didn't like the work I was doing but I felt like I didn't have the skills to get another job. My portfolio feels like it hasn't even improved since I graduated college. I really doubted my own design abilities and wondered if I'm even good enough.
I studied Media Communications so I didn't necessarily get proper graphic design education, but I'm considering going back to school for an actual diploma in design. I’ve been learning on my own time but everything feels unstructured and inconsistent. I know it's not necessary to have a degree but I think having that education will put me back on track and boost my confidence.
Do you think I should go back to school or continue with my independent learning?
I hate how the job market is right now, any tips on climbing up the ladder from intermediate designer to senior?
(This is one of a series of questions I received on Instagram prior to Portfolio Review Night 6)
Over the past 18 months, I've been looking for a job and despite making it through some initial screenings and early interview rounds, I've not been able to secure a role. I've gone to career fairs and portfolio reviews and tried my best to network (like getting in touch with hiring managers and creative directors). But after getting feedback on my work, all I hear is "your work seems great, but you don't have agency experience" or "your work is too polished for an entry-level position, but you don't have enough experience for mid-level" (tbh, I wasn't only applying for agency jobs). This has been really discouraging, and I’m at a point where I don't know what to do next. I kind of feel like giving up. What should I do?
I graduated from my program 3 years ago in advertising and graphic design while also having a previous diploma in business management. I’ve been struggling to find employment in my field. I tried reaching out, networking while applying online, however haven't received any response nor offers. I need advice on any available programs or opportunities I can do that will hopefully lead me to work. I’m part of the RGD and did a mentorship program and managed to fix my resume and portfolio. I also attended your Portfolio Review Night for extra assistance however, so far it hasn’t lead to any offers.
Are there any places that help you find jobs within design and advertising? I tried using Creative Circle and they weren’t able to find a position available in my field. I’m using Acces Employment now but they weren’t able to find any jobs and didn’t have any opportunities in the field of creative.
Honestly I need help and I'm struggling to find any job opportunities for me as a junior graphic designer. I do have experience working as a graphic design intern for a startup. I’ve used LinkedIn and Indeed and other job sites; however, the majority of them didn’t respond back and I’ve been constantly applying and checking. I need help and advice on what my next step should be.
