So You Wanna Be a Graphic Designer? Here's Where to Start.
Woman working on laptop in a local coffee shop
Getting into graphic design (or any creative career, really) can feel like stepping into a world that’s already spinning at 100mph. There’s pressure to build a brand, find your niche, create the perfect website, and somehow attract dream clients overnight.
Spoiler alert: that’s not how it works.
Whether you're fresh out of school, shifting careers, or just craving a creative outlet that pays, here are 5 tips I wish I knew when I started out — no fluff, no hustle-culture nonsense.
1. Reach Out to Agencies + Studios You Admire
Seriously. Slide into those DMs. Email the creative director. Let them know you admire their work and would love to chat or lend a hand if they ever need freelance support. Agencies are often juggling a million projects — having a talented freelancer on deck (aka you) is a lifesaver.
The worst thing that happens? They don’t respond. The best? You land your first gig or a future collaborator.
2. Network — but Make It Genuine
This isn’t about collecting LinkedIn connections or schmoozing your way through awkward events. It’s about building real relationships. The majority of my clients? Referrals from people who knew me, liked my vibe, and trusted me to deliver.
Be kind, curious, and present. Make friends, not just contacts.
3. Join Design Challenges on IG
Instagram briefs are a goldmine — not only for flexing your design skills but for filling your grid with work you’re actually excited about. You get practice, exposure, and content all in one. Think of your IG as your living, breathing portfolio — especially early on.
Bonus: you never know who’s lurking. Some of my favorite gigs started from someone finding me through a challenge post.
4. Don’t Stress About a Website (Yet)
Hot take? You don’t need a website to get started. If your Instagram shows your latest work, that’s where most people will discover you anyway. Socials move fast, and that’s often where your best (and most up-to-date) work lives.
Eventually, yes — build that online home. But don’t let it stop you from sharing your work and growing your client list now.
5. Don’t Rush Defining Your Style (Or Your Rates)
There’s this weird pressure to have a fully-formed design aesthetic the second you start. Truth is, your style develops over time — through projects, experimentation, and even the not-so-dreamy clients.
Take on what comes your way in the beginning. Learn. Get paid. Then start being selective once you can be selective. Don’t feel bad if you’re not charging $5k per brand package yet. That’ll come with experience, consistency, and confidence.
Ignore the noise. Build your skills. Stay curious. And remember — every designer started somewhere.
Want more behind-the-scenes freelance truths, branding tips, and design inspo?
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