If you're interested in pursuing a career in the design and development world, this article will guide you. It's worth noting that many of the tips here are not exclusive to design or development fields but are valuable for any job. You'll want to pay close attention to the "Personal Branding" section, vitally important in the design and development worlds. You may also be interested in my article on finding a job.
Psychological Preparedness
The first thing to consider is whether you even want to work in the design and development fields. The impact of design is profound, which means the hurdles to becoming a professional designer are many. The same goes for high-level development. For those dedicated to the field, these challenges are worth the rewards.
Ask yourself these questions from time to time:
"Am I willing to spend long hours (over 40 per week)?"
If the answer is no, find an internship rather than a full-time job. Most interns receive at least one day off per week, but that privilege is often lost with a full-time job.
"Am I willing to work with people who are annoying?"
Designers and developers aren't always easy to work with. They can be rude and snobbish, but they don't mean to be. Even though you may run into those people, your personality is still valuable in the design and development world, so don't let them knock you down.
"Do I have enough creativity and patience to cope with my co-workers?"
If the answer is no, you should look into a career in another field. Don't lose hope; there's something out there for you.
Academic Hurdles and Tips for Reducing the Cost of a College Education in Design
If you don't have the financial means to attend college, then maybe you won't get the design and development education that you want. There are many ways to reduce the cost of your education. It would help if you also looked for an internship at a local design firm as part of your educational experience; these programs often pay for themselves (and more!) after graduation. You could also look into using a part-time job and an internship during college to help you earn some money while saving up school funds. A scholarship is another excellent way to reduce the cost of your education. For example, several interior design scholarships are available, which can be $5,000 or more per year.
Developing a Personal Branding
Don't underestimate the influence of your personal brand on potential employers. Here are a few tips to help you develop a better personal brand:
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Publicly brand yourself
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Pay attention to your users
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Be consistent
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Take responsibility for your users' experience
The main point here is to make your identity clear. Don't be afraid to talk about your accomplishments and experiences. If there were times when you were not contributing much in the past, then don't dwell on that. Just remember to be honest and forthcoming when you present yourself to others.
Developing the Technical Skills You Need to Succeed
While technical skills are not required to succeed in the design and development world, employers highly desire them. If you don't have the necessary skills, you'll need to find a way to get them. Here are a few suggestions:
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Use Google as much as possible
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Ask people for help in starting with your tools
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Look up resources online for free
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Take online courses
The most important thing is to learn how to use what you already have. Once you start to see the light at the end of that tunnel, you'll be very motivated. Never give up during this part of your training!
Communicating with Design and Development Professionals
As a design and development professional, you will find yourself communicating with other designers and developers every day. If you're not good at communicating with them, you will fail. Consider these tips:
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Listen more than speak
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Show emotion
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Be approachable
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Avoid "salesmanship." Don't try to sell your ideas to others
When communicating with others, you should also consider what is appropriate and not.
Here are a few tips:
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Never talk behind people's backs
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Don't gossip about people who are not present
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Don't talk badly about your boss, co-workers, or users when they're not around
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Never say something that you would regret later
The idea of communication is all about being human. Sometimes you'll have something terrible to say. But if you say it, you should always be prepared for the consequences.
Final Thought
When you're a designer or developer, it's essential to be yourself still and be yourself professionally. Accepting the roles that others have offered you will help you become more professional and perform your jobs at a higher level than before.
* This is a contributed article and this content does not necessarily represent the views of sciencetimes.com
