Top 10 Things That A Designer Needs to Start Their Career.

1. Sketchbook

This may seem obvious to some, but a sketchbook to me is the cornerstone of all design projects. It’s a place to gather your thoughts, take notes, create concepts, and track your process. For me a sketchbook is where I can be free and do what ever I like to do and develop my skills while coming up with new ideas to make future projects better than the last. This is why the sketchbook is at the top of my list.

I personally like to go for hard-bound sketchbooks with non-perforated pages. (I mean typically they don’t, but spiral sketchbooks sometimes do). Hard-bound sketchbooks just seem more sturdy to me.

2. A Desktop or Laptop Computer

I know some may be thinking DUH!!! of course you need one, But I recommend to look for something that is going to last you and able to keep up with you as you progress throughout your career.

Roberto Blake, a Graphic Designer based in New York, has a video that can explain and suggest all that you need in a computer for your path.

3. Drawing Tablet

Every designer in my opinion needs a drawing tablet to transfer the ideas they made in the sketchbook (el numero uno) on to a digital format. Just as a personal preference I would go with Wacom Tablets. I mean hey, it’s been about 2 years and I’m still rockin’ my Bamboo Fun tablet.

4. Camera

Now, here’s a fun one. Every designer should have a Camera.. Not just any camera, but a DSLR camera. I say get this because you need to be able to document your work step by step and they will be ready for the world to view in a hi-def format so that every detail won’t be missed.

5. Online Portfolio

Now, that you have your sketchbook, your work and you’ve documented your progress, what are you going to do with all this content… oh I don’t know.. PUT IT ON YOUR ONLINE PORTFOLIO. Show the world your creations, but don’t overshare, because you may want somethings to be up your sleeve.

You can design and code your own portfolio by using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Dreamweaver, or for those who just want to focus on designing you can even use Adobe Muse (there are some mixed feelings about this app. I’ll probably make a post about this later). Then, you are going to need to find a web hosting company like Host Gator to register your domain name, like www.tgsketch.comand host your website.

Other than that.. You can use an online platform like Behance or Dribbble

6. Blog

Next up would be a blog. Now that you have your online prtfolio up you’ll notice that at times it’ll become static, nothing’s happening. So what better way to get engaged with the online community than keeping them in the loop. Make a blog, post about what you’ve learned, your upcoming projects, what you’ve read, etc. It’s a great way to get organic SEO back to your portfolio site and for you as a designer to get found by potential employers and clients.

7. AIGA Membership

For those that don’t know, AIGA is an organization that brings design to the world, and the world to designers. This organization will help you connect with other designers in your profession, help you find a job, and even gives you these SWEEEEET benefits and discounts. Check out the membershipsand get started with them, personally I would go with the Supporting membership, because that is where all the fun stuff is bestowed unto you.

8. Thirst for Knowledge

NEVER lose the passion for what you have. Go out there and read a book. look at what other designers are doing, and bounce ideas off them and create something.

9. Mentor(s)

For those who have experience already, you can skip this one. Although, for those who want that extra bit of guidance…find a mentor or a group of mentors, someone that has experience in your design concentration to show you the ropes. This person will keep you on track and should keep you inspired to do what you do best.

10. Show Your Work by Austin Kleon

Lastly is a book. Show Your Work, which was a recommended read by Roberto Blake, is a GREAT way to get found fast as a designer. I’ve just finished reading my copy of the book and might I say this post or blog wouldn’t have happened without it.