My Dream Job.

Shahzaib Ali
3 min readApr 11, 2024

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What is graphic design to me? Graphic design is a way of expressing one’s creativity through many different ways from print to digital. Graphic design is the process of expressing an idea through various media as well as the skills required to achieve the desired outcome. It’s about solving your concept and determining how ideas can be translated into the final product. I am a versatile designer looking for a job that allows me to express and explore my strengths while also working on my weaknesses. There are various types of graphic designers, including in-house graphic designers, agency graphic designers, freelance graphic designers, web designers, print designers, environmental graphic designers, and many more. I want a job which is flexible but also has some structure. My ideal graphic design job is to work in a studio with other creatives. I hope one day to become a creative director or owner of a design studio specialising in not one specific area but perhaps focusing on traditional design or print design (editorial, advertising, packaging and more).

Print designers create magazine layouts, book covers and layouts, catalogues, greeting cards, packaging, textile prints, and more. Print designers create innovative printed materials like publications and advertising materials. They use design components, fonts and layouts to express their messages. Understanding colour theory is essential for choosing and arranging colours that appeal to the target audience. Overall, the goal is to create visually appealing and impactful designs for physical mediums.

My ideal day as a middleweight designer in a design studio starts at 8 am, and after arriving at the studio around 9 am, the day begins with a project briefing. We discuss tasks such as ongoing client projects, an upcoming editorial for an exhibition about the design studio, and a new packaging design project.

From 10 am to 1 pm, I delve into creative work, focusing on designing brochures, posters, and packaging. Attention to detail is crucial as I collaborate with the team for feedback and support, creating a dynamic and creative atmosphere in the studio.

After a lunch break from 1 pm to 2 pm, I might engage in client meetings to discuss projects or present design concepts. Simultaneously, I work closely with team members, ensuring smooth communication and coordination across different aspects of our projects.

From 3 pm to 5 pm, I manage project deadlines and make adjustments if needed. The late afternoon is dedicated to the production and file preparation phase, ensuring that all final designs, including the packaging, are print-ready and meet industry standards.

By 6 pm, I wrap up the day, reflecting on creative accomplishments and preparing for the next day’s challenges. My ideal day is a well-balanced mix of creativity, collaboration, and effective project management, contributing to the success and vibrancy of the design studio across various design projects, including packaging.

SWOT Analysis.

In analysing my SWOT, my natural creativity drives innovative designs in graphic design. Effective communication and teamwork foster collaboration, while my strong time management ensures project deadlines are met. However, discomfort with presentations and self-criticism may hinder progress. Opportunities for skill enhancement and networking events offer avenues for growth. Yet, increased competition and shifts in the print industry pose challenges. By capitalizing on strengths and addressing weaknesses, I can navigate these dynamics to achieve my aspirations.

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