8 answers
Caitlin
Student
Suffield, Connecticut
1
Question
Asked
1018 views
How can I get into publication design from a marketing background?
I have a marketing design background and without experience I can't seem to get an interview. How did you break into a new field?
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8 answers
Garima Lajras
Illustrator, 2D animator, Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer
38
Answers
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Garima’s Answer
Breaking into publication design from a marketing background can be beneficial, but you'll need to learn new skills and invest time in the process. Here's a simplified plan to help you transition:
1. Research the Industry and Understand Publication Design :
Publication design is a branch of graphic design focused on creating visually appealing and functional layouts for printed and digital publications. This includes designing books, magazines, newspapers, newsletters, brochures, and other formats where text and images are combined to communicate effectively. The main elements of publication design are layout, typography, color theory, imagery, and consistency.
2. Learn Key Skills :
Focus on mastering the essential skills required for publication design. Take courses, read books, and practice using design software like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop.
3. Build a Portfolio :
Create projects that showcase your skills in publication design. This can include mock-ups of magazines, brochures, newsletters, and more. Your portfolio is crucial in the design field, regardless of your background.
Here are some LinkedIn Learning courses that can help you transition into publication design:
1. InDesign 2023 Essential Training by David Blatner
2. Graphic Design Foundations: Layout and Composition by Sean Adams
3. Typography for Designers
4. Building a Portfolio with Adobe InDesign by Nigel French
They also have certificates.
Now the reason why marketing background is beneficial for you:
1. Marketing professionals are skilled at identifying and understanding target audiences, which is crucial in publication design.
2. Content Creation- Marketing often involves creating compelling content. This experience is directly applicable to publication design, where content and visuals need to work together harmoniously.
3. Project Management Skills-Marketing professionals typically manage projects, work with deadlines, and coordinate with various teams. These skills are invaluable in the publication design process, where collaboration and time management are key.
4. Communication Skills: Strong communication skills developed in marketing can facilitate better collaboration with clients, editors, and other stakeholders in the publication design process.
Since you need to gain experience using LinkedIn to find volunteer work in book publication can be a strategic way to gain experience and build your portfolio
1. Make good LinkedIn profile.
2. Join Relevant Groups:
Search for and join LinkedIn groups related to book publishing, such as "Book Publishing Professionals," "Publishing Industry Network," and "Graphic Design and Publication."Participate in discussions and share your interest in volunteering.
3. Follow Publishing Companies and Organizations.
4. Network with Industry Professionals.
I know the answer is long but I hope this helps. By focusing on these steps and continually improving your skills, you can successfully transition from marketing to publication design.
Best of luck on your journey.
Research the industry
Learn key skills
Build a portfolio
Network
Gain experience by doing volunteer work
1. Research the Industry and Understand Publication Design :
Publication design is a branch of graphic design focused on creating visually appealing and functional layouts for printed and digital publications. This includes designing books, magazines, newspapers, newsletters, brochures, and other formats where text and images are combined to communicate effectively. The main elements of publication design are layout, typography, color theory, imagery, and consistency.
2. Learn Key Skills :
Focus on mastering the essential skills required for publication design. Take courses, read books, and practice using design software like Adobe InDesign and Photoshop.
3. Build a Portfolio :
Create projects that showcase your skills in publication design. This can include mock-ups of magazines, brochures, newsletters, and more. Your portfolio is crucial in the design field, regardless of your background.
Here are some LinkedIn Learning courses that can help you transition into publication design:
1. InDesign 2023 Essential Training by David Blatner
2. Graphic Design Foundations: Layout and Composition by Sean Adams
3. Typography for Designers
4. Building a Portfolio with Adobe InDesign by Nigel French
They also have certificates.
Now the reason why marketing background is beneficial for you:
1. Marketing professionals are skilled at identifying and understanding target audiences, which is crucial in publication design.
2. Content Creation- Marketing often involves creating compelling content. This experience is directly applicable to publication design, where content and visuals need to work together harmoniously.
3. Project Management Skills-Marketing professionals typically manage projects, work with deadlines, and coordinate with various teams. These skills are invaluable in the publication design process, where collaboration and time management are key.
4. Communication Skills: Strong communication skills developed in marketing can facilitate better collaboration with clients, editors, and other stakeholders in the publication design process.
Since you need to gain experience using LinkedIn to find volunteer work in book publication can be a strategic way to gain experience and build your portfolio
1. Make good LinkedIn profile.
2. Join Relevant Groups:
Search for and join LinkedIn groups related to book publishing, such as "Book Publishing Professionals," "Publishing Industry Network," and "Graphic Design and Publication."Participate in discussions and share your interest in volunteering.
3. Follow Publishing Companies and Organizations.
4. Network with Industry Professionals.
I know the answer is long but I hope this helps. By focusing on these steps and continually improving your skills, you can successfully transition from marketing to publication design.
Best of luck on your journey.
Garima recommends the following next steps:
Tiffany S
Writer & Instructor
11
Answers
Highland, California
Updated
Tiffany’s Answer
Sounds fun! You say that you have a background, but you also say that you lack experience. "Well, one is marketing, and the other is design." Right, there is a common thread.
So, first thing is first, really pull out what your background is. Did you make a website with some friends? Okay, write it down.
1. I made a website with some friends.
2.
Before you say, "Two doesn't really count..." ask yourself why it does. That's right, ask yourself, "Why does this count?" You have to come up with a reason.
"Okay, I made a collage from some magazines, and I took some tape and glue, and put it over a book." No one knows about it. Why does it count? "Because... uhhh..." Wait for it! "I took personal time to create from my collection." Great!
3. I won an award for getting over 100 people to this event.
Wonderful! It has nothing to do with publication design. Wait! There's more. You might attract people to work with you. You might attract buyers.
At the end of everything, try making a portfolio. Capture some photos, put them in order, and maybe add glue. I joke about the glue. Instead, specifically decide on a short description. You'll have accomplished something, and you can show it in your applications.
So, first thing is first, really pull out what your background is. Did you make a website with some friends? Okay, write it down.
1. I made a website with some friends.
2.
Before you say, "Two doesn't really count..." ask yourself why it does. That's right, ask yourself, "Why does this count?" You have to come up with a reason.
"Okay, I made a collage from some magazines, and I took some tape and glue, and put it over a book." No one knows about it. Why does it count? "Because... uhhh..." Wait for it! "I took personal time to create from my collection." Great!
3. I won an award for getting over 100 people to this event.
Wonderful! It has nothing to do with publication design. Wait! There's more. You might attract people to work with you. You might attract buyers.
At the end of everything, try making a portfolio. Capture some photos, put them in order, and maybe add glue. I joke about the glue. Instead, specifically decide on a short description. You'll have accomplished something, and you can show it in your applications.
Paul Hultman
Freelance Illustrations
6
Answers
Torrington, Connecticut
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Here's a more encouraging version of your text:
Remember, the golden rule from my early school days is this: Always cherish what you're doing, no matter how you perceive the quality of your art. Passion is the fuel that drives excellence, whether it's in art or any other field! Instead of being overly critical of yourself, stay open-minded and take on board the feedback from others. Use their insights as a foundation for your growth as you steadily refine your style and technique, and discover your unique niche.
Take inspiration from other artists' styles and techniques, but never lose sight of your own authenticity as you build your portfolio. This is your journey of self-discovery, so don't rush it. Embrace the process and never forget that you're doing what you love.
Stay open to possibilities as you set your artistic goals. You'll come across resources that open up various paths, guiding you towards a career in art or illustration. Remember, success is all about following your heart and living out your passion. This will be the driving force behind your pursuit of the career you desire!
When you face discouragement, don't give up. Persistence and determination will steer you in the right direction. Keep exploring your ambitions, put in the effort, and you'll find yourself inching ever closer to your goals. Wishing you all the best in your quest for publication design!
Remember, the golden rule from my early school days is this: Always cherish what you're doing, no matter how you perceive the quality of your art. Passion is the fuel that drives excellence, whether it's in art or any other field! Instead of being overly critical of yourself, stay open-minded and take on board the feedback from others. Use their insights as a foundation for your growth as you steadily refine your style and technique, and discover your unique niche.
Take inspiration from other artists' styles and techniques, but never lose sight of your own authenticity as you build your portfolio. This is your journey of self-discovery, so don't rush it. Embrace the process and never forget that you're doing what you love.
Stay open to possibilities as you set your artistic goals. You'll come across resources that open up various paths, guiding you towards a career in art or illustration. Remember, success is all about following your heart and living out your passion. This will be the driving force behind your pursuit of the career you desire!
When you face discouragement, don't give up. Persistence and determination will steer you in the right direction. Keep exploring your ambitions, put in the effort, and you'll find yourself inching ever closer to your goals. Wishing you all the best in your quest for publication design!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5667
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Caitlin,
Transitioning from Marketing to Publication Design
1. Evaluate and Leverage Your Skills: To shift from marketing to publication design, it's crucial to evaluate your existing skills and pinpoint those that can be utilized in your new career path. Both marketing and design require creativity, effective communication, project management, and understanding of target audiences. Emphasize these skills in your resume and during interviews to illustrate their value in publication design.
2. Develop a Robust Portfolio: A compelling portfolio is key to entering the field of publication design. Even if you lack direct experience, focus on creating sample projects or revamping existing publications to exhibit your skills. Incorporate a range of design elements like layouts, typography, color schemes, and visual hierarchy to demonstrate your adaptability and creativity.
3. Acquire Experience through Freelance Work or Internships: Freelance projects or internships can offer practical experience in publication design. This firsthand experience not only enhances your portfolio but also offers insight into industry standards and best practices. Seek opportunities with publishers, media companies, or design agencies to gain exposure to diverse publication projects.
4. Connect with the Design Community: Networking is instrumental when venturing into a new field. Participate in design events, workshops, conferences, and online forums to engage with professionals in the publication design industry. Establishing connections with seasoned designers can lead to potential job openings, mentorship, and valuable advice on entering the field.
5. Commit to Ongoing Learning and Skill Enhancement: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in publication design through continuous learning and skill development. Enroll in relevant courses, workshops, or online tutorials to improve your technical skills in software tools like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Demonstrating dedication to learning and growth will make you more appealing to potential employers.
6. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter: When applying for publication design roles, tailor your resume and cover letter to showcase relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments that meet the job requirements. Highlight how your marketing background has provided you with valuable insights that can be leveraged to create impactful designs for publications.
7. Stay Persistent and Maintain a Positive Attitude: Transitioning into a new field demands persistence and resilience. Rejections are part of the journey, but maintaining a positive attitude and focus on your goal will eventually lead to success. Continue refining your portfolio, networking actively, seeking professional feedback, and applying for relevant opportunities until you secure your desired role in publication design.
By diligently following these steps and utilizing your marketing background as an asset, you can successfully transition into publication design and effectively showcase your creative talents.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Creative Group: A premier staffing agency that links creative professionals with job opportunities in various industries including graphic design, marketing, advertising, and publishing.
AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts): A professional organization for designers that provides resources, events, educational programs, and networking opportunities for individuals seeking to further their careers in graphic design fields such as publication design.
Adobe Creative Cloud Blog: Adobe’s Creative Cloud Blog offers valuable insights, tutorials, tips, and industry updates related to graphic design software tools like Adobe InDesign, commonly used in publication design projects.
These sources were referenced to gather information on industry trends, best practices for career transitions from marketing to publication design, and advice for building a successful career in this specialized design field.
Blessings,
JC.
Transitioning from Marketing to Publication Design
1. Evaluate and Leverage Your Skills: To shift from marketing to publication design, it's crucial to evaluate your existing skills and pinpoint those that can be utilized in your new career path. Both marketing and design require creativity, effective communication, project management, and understanding of target audiences. Emphasize these skills in your resume and during interviews to illustrate their value in publication design.
2. Develop a Robust Portfolio: A compelling portfolio is key to entering the field of publication design. Even if you lack direct experience, focus on creating sample projects or revamping existing publications to exhibit your skills. Incorporate a range of design elements like layouts, typography, color schemes, and visual hierarchy to demonstrate your adaptability and creativity.
3. Acquire Experience through Freelance Work or Internships: Freelance projects or internships can offer practical experience in publication design. This firsthand experience not only enhances your portfolio but also offers insight into industry standards and best practices. Seek opportunities with publishers, media companies, or design agencies to gain exposure to diverse publication projects.
4. Connect with the Design Community: Networking is instrumental when venturing into a new field. Participate in design events, workshops, conferences, and online forums to engage with professionals in the publication design industry. Establishing connections with seasoned designers can lead to potential job openings, mentorship, and valuable advice on entering the field.
5. Commit to Ongoing Learning and Skill Enhancement: Keep up with the latest trends and technologies in publication design through continuous learning and skill development. Enroll in relevant courses, workshops, or online tutorials to improve your technical skills in software tools like Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop. Demonstrating dedication to learning and growth will make you more appealing to potential employers.
6. Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter: When applying for publication design roles, tailor your resume and cover letter to showcase relevant experiences, skills, and accomplishments that meet the job requirements. Highlight how your marketing background has provided you with valuable insights that can be leveraged to create impactful designs for publications.
7. Stay Persistent and Maintain a Positive Attitude: Transitioning into a new field demands persistence and resilience. Rejections are part of the journey, but maintaining a positive attitude and focus on your goal will eventually lead to success. Continue refining your portfolio, networking actively, seeking professional feedback, and applying for relevant opportunities until you secure your desired role in publication design.
By diligently following these steps and utilizing your marketing background as an asset, you can successfully transition into publication design and effectively showcase your creative talents.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Creative Group: A premier staffing agency that links creative professionals with job opportunities in various industries including graphic design, marketing, advertising, and publishing.
AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts): A professional organization for designers that provides resources, events, educational programs, and networking opportunities for individuals seeking to further their careers in graphic design fields such as publication design.
Adobe Creative Cloud Blog: Adobe’s Creative Cloud Blog offers valuable insights, tutorials, tips, and industry updates related to graphic design software tools like Adobe InDesign, commonly used in publication design projects.
These sources were referenced to gather information on industry trends, best practices for career transitions from marketing to publication design, and advice for building a successful career in this specialized design field.
Blessings,
JC.
William Nwaogu
Construction, CAD and BIM
247
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
William’s Answer
Are you aiming print media, website media or video content media design?
You already have marketing skills.
Develop UX/UI skills for enhancing your user experience. Adobe X is a good app for this.
Dive from marketing background to publication design by doing these:
Develop yourself or your staff in creatives applications for the print media, like: Adobe InDesign and Adobe Express, whether for print media or online publications.
You can boost graphics quality of your publications with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Aftereffects. You can use Adobe InCopy for copyright management. Use Adobe Stock for quality images. Canva is a good tool for developing high quality publication contents.
If you focus more on digital authoring, you might consider website design applications like Dreamweaver; and content management systems like Hubspot, Optimizely and Word Press.
Applications such as: Illustrator, Lightroom, Animate, Substance 3D Modeller, Substance 3D Painter, Substance 3D Stager are good for multimedia publications across various online and offline media.
It will be good to choose an Art, and Media or Visual Communication, Journalism course path to better understand the principles and professional aspects of Media Design.
Getting a practice license can be easier with a qualification and industry experience through internship, volunteer or apprenticeship programs.
It is good to built a portfolio of your works for exhibitions and auditions.
Branding is very important, while you do not neglect other aspects of marketing mix in building a good professional (personal branding) or business reputation (mostly through - website, social media, promotions and advertisement s, quality of service delivery, products, pricing and cost optimization, peer review, business culture and operating frameworks and standards).
You can package yourself well with written resumes or CVs, online profiles and required competencies for success in your field.
Professional collaborations, networking, webinars, trainings, events, workshops, and conferences are good opportunities for learning.
You already have marketing skills.
Develop UX/UI skills for enhancing your user experience. Adobe X is a good app for this.
Dive from marketing background to publication design by doing these:
Develop yourself or your staff in creatives applications for the print media, like: Adobe InDesign and Adobe Express, whether for print media or online publications.
You can boost graphics quality of your publications with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Aftereffects. You can use Adobe InCopy for copyright management. Use Adobe Stock for quality images. Canva is a good tool for developing high quality publication contents.
If you focus more on digital authoring, you might consider website design applications like Dreamweaver; and content management systems like Hubspot, Optimizely and Word Press.
Applications such as: Illustrator, Lightroom, Animate, Substance 3D Modeller, Substance 3D Painter, Substance 3D Stager are good for multimedia publications across various online and offline media.
It will be good to choose an Art, and Media or Visual Communication, Journalism course path to better understand the principles and professional aspects of Media Design.
Getting a practice license can be easier with a qualification and industry experience through internship, volunteer or apprenticeship programs.
It is good to built a portfolio of your works for exhibitions and auditions.
Branding is very important, while you do not neglect other aspects of marketing mix in building a good professional (personal branding) or business reputation (mostly through - website, social media, promotions and advertisement s, quality of service delivery, products, pricing and cost optimization, peer review, business culture and operating frameworks and standards).
You can package yourself well with written resumes or CVs, online profiles and required competencies for success in your field.
Professional collaborations, networking, webinars, trainings, events, workshops, and conferences are good opportunities for learning.
David Bixby
Experience Design
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
David’s Answer
All the above answers are great.
I want to reinforce point #4 from James Constantine - connecting with the community. Ideally, as much as possible this can be in person. The COVID pandemic proved how important it is to connect with people directly, in ways where you can more easily have personal and emotional exchanges and connections.
I'm old school - even though 90% of my connections with people are mediated/remote, there is no substitute for meeting people directly and engaging with them, learning, agreeing, disagreeing, etc. So in your local area, look to events and other ways to meet people directly and learn from them.
I want to reinforce point #4 from James Constantine - connecting with the community. Ideally, as much as possible this can be in person. The COVID pandemic proved how important it is to connect with people directly, in ways where you can more easily have personal and emotional exchanges and connections.
I'm old school - even though 90% of my connections with people are mediated/remote, there is no substitute for meeting people directly and engaging with them, learning, agreeing, disagreeing, etc. So in your local area, look to events and other ways to meet people directly and learn from them.
Jordan Wilk
Statistical Programmer
18
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Jordan’s Answer
I'd encourage you to dedicate a portfolio website exclusively to publication design. Don't worry if you lack experience, your enthusiasm can fuel numerous passion projects that showcase your aptitude and readiness for this new venture. Your marketing background, in fact, could be a valuable asset, giving you a competitive edge over other candidates. However, remember that having a robust portfolio is the key element in this transition.
Vanessa Bush
Author and podcaster
7
Answers
San Salvador, San Salvador Department, El Salvador
Updated
Vanessa’s Answer
All the previous answers are very good so I'll just add a small answer:
-Obviously you have already acquired skills and knowledge in your fiekd and design and publication are two things that are constantly in need of marketing so with your marketing background experience you will be able to gain access to more ample resources and opportunities and attract many people to you, sure you'll need to at least take a short training in design and learn about design publishing wherever you can so you dont start empty headed but with that you'll learn along the way and can use both knowledge and skills for your advantage
-Obviously you have already acquired skills and knowledge in your fiekd and design and publication are two things that are constantly in need of marketing so with your marketing background experience you will be able to gain access to more ample resources and opportunities and attract many people to you, sure you'll need to at least take a short training in design and learn about design publishing wherever you can so you dont start empty headed but with that you'll learn along the way and can use both knowledge and skills for your advantage