Daniel
As a graduating Graphic Designer what skills should I focus more on learning?
I am currently proficient in Illustrator, Photoshop and indesign but as I am in the upper level classes I am learning new programs like, Adobe Animate, After Effects, Dreamweaver and so on. So i am just curious what are the most sought after skills that employers are looking for? #graphic-design #adobe
5 answers
Troy Stange
Troy’s Answer
There are a lot of opportunities for UI/UX people. App design, game design, etc. Branding will always be big I think, but that is going to include UI/UX. Illustration is always good too. I recommend getting a good solid foundation of various skills and then really focus on the one you like the best and then become known for it. It's best when you're the go-to person for a particular kind of project.
Take a look at the jobs board on Behance and you can see what employers are looking for around the world.
Zaara KittenChops
Zaara’s Answer
User interface design and web design skills would be very useful. You can always choose your favorite skills/software and build expertise with that. You won't be needing a huge range of sore are knowledge but is is great to explore and see what you enjoy the most.
Cuong Nguyen
Cuong’s Answer
It sounds like you are able to pick the adobe programs very quickly. You should pursue something like a UI/UX designer. It also depends what kind of design you would like to do and enjoy. Dreamweaver is more on the side of web design, you would work as a front-end web developer. After Effects leads to more motion graphics and video production. But either of these skills are a higher level than print work meaning, they do paid more but more challenging. Some people prefer print work and some people prefer digital work. I prefer digital work
Sue Segade
Sue’s Answer
It looks like you're on the right path. I work in Marketing for a home builder and the only programs I've used in the past 20+ years are Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Acrobat and Quark. I'm currently using Illustrator to provide floorplans for web content. Sorry I'm not more familiar with the other web programs you listed but I'm pretty sure a lot of people in my company use Adobe Animate, After Effects & Dreamweaver.
Terri L. Frazier
Terri L.’s Answer
Daniel, it sounds like you have some good applications in your arsenal. The next question I would ask you - in order to answer your question - is what sort of graphic design are you interested in doing? That is going to drive what applications you should be proficient in. Will your design be for print or web? Have you completed any internships? Consider spending some time in a design shop, or office. Gaining experience and being able to show professional level examples is more important than the number of applications you are proficient in. As a professional you will learn many applications - work experience and flexibility is what will matter. Happy designing and good luck in your search.