9 Ways to Find Design Work

If you hear anyone declaring that there are no more opportunities out there for designers, you’re listening to the wrong people. Finding new opportunities to learn, grow, gain experience, and make money in graphic design is dependent on a few things on your part:

• open-mindedness and a willingness to learn/apply something new
• get out of your comfort zone (aww man!)
• a curious mind/eye
• focus and intention (not distraction)
• perseverance (don’t give up after 3 tries)

Here are 9 ways to find design opportunities to reach your goals:

1. Ask for it

You mean, literally asking a real human if they need design help? Yes. Example: “I’d like to propose a conversation to help you with your XYZ project. Are you open to that?” This requires conversations or thoughtful outreach to new or known prospective clients/jobs — and a bit of courage. Sometimes we have not, simply because we ask not.

2. Attend Networking Events/Meetups/Conferences

This may be a tough one for hardcore introverts, but meeting up with people in person can strike quicker conversations and garner an introductory level of trust. Check out Meetup.com, Eventbrite, 10times, and many…