Advertising designers create visual and print ideas for advertising and marketing campaigns. They must be able to work independently and effectively communicate their ideas in written, verbal, and visual ways. The Advertising Designer will create ad designs and other related artwork for advertisers from conception of the advertising campaign to the final layout, finishing ads with copy, generating proofs and making revisions, uploading released ads, attending team meetings and attending sales calls to discuss creative topics with advertisers. By placing the product within the work of art, the advertising designer is hoping to create the desire for consumers to buy the product.
Those with training will have the advantage over those with little or no education or training within the field. Beginning graphic designers usually receive on-the-job training and normally need 1 to 3 years of training before they can advance to higher positions. Bachelor degree programs in fine arts or graphic design are offered at many colleges, universities, and private design schools. Many schools do not allow formal entry into a bachelor’s degree program until a student has successfully finished a year of basic art and design courses. Some candidates receive certificates or associate degrees from 2- and 3-year professional schools. In addition to design courses, a liberal arts education that includes courses in art history, writing, psychology, sociology, cultural studies, marketing, and business are helpful in designers seeking work within the advertising field. These courses will give the potential advertising designer knowledge of the industry and consumers they are trying to reach.
While jobs in Advertising Design will always be strongly sought after career, the growth in advertising and promotions fuelled by strong business competition should ensure that the job outlook for skilled professionals in Advertising Design will be excellent in the foreseeable future.
Although, job seekers are expected to face keen competition; individuals with a bachelor’s degree and knowledge of computer design software, particularly those with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities. A good portfolio and experience is often the deciding factor in securing an advertising designer position.
