The life of a design graduate

I have been very busy since I left Staffordshire University, my weekdays and sometimes my weekends are spent applying for jobs, finding opportunities, and e-mailing design agencies. There are a lot of jobs out there but it is tough to find the right one. The design world is going through a change - digital and web design is taking over!

Here are some tips if you are still looking for a job in a design agency:

Be honest
If the job advertisement is asking for a designer with skills that you do not have then don't waste your time or theirs.

Stand out
Everyone sends e-mails - try sending a letter, some samples of your work, or something that you have made for that particular agency.

Ask for advice
The best thing I ever did was to send a heartfelt email to my favourite designer and I still use the advice now.

Network
The most effective way of getting a job is by being known by the professionals in your area. Be in the right places with the right people, be helpful and offer to do favours.

Get personal
If you are sending the same e-mail to every agency, stop. The e-mail has to be personalised to the company that you want to be employed by.

Be Passionate
I have had the best responses from companies that I have really shown a genuine interest in. The cover letter is not about you, it is about them and what makes you want to work for them.

Put the effort in
Short and sweet is not always the best way - put the time and effort in and write a long, detailed, thought out letter.

Be professional
Social Networking sites can be seen by everyone, so make sure that you are not complaining or posting inappropriate photos and articles online, that may deter potential employers.

Be persistent
If you really want to work in that agency, don't stop trying.

Face to Face
Stay in the mind of the employer/director, let them put a face to a name. It's harder to ignore someone if they are standing right in front of you.

The last tip 2 tips are where I am at now. My next step is to go in and sign up with a creative recruitment agency, and visit my top 10 or 20 favourite design consultants with handwritten letters, business cards, work samples and a piece of work designed especially for them.

To any other design graduates out there who are in the same position;

Good Luck!