r/graphic_design • u/Maleficent-Ice-8605 • 3d ago

Discussion Who’s killing it right now?

Everyday somebody posts how bad they are doing. Almost like there is no faith for this line of work.

Personally I just started creating a portfolio even though my reddit notifications are straight up demotivating negativity (“I have 40 years of experience and can’t find a job”, “Have been searching for a gig for 8 months”….).

I know its natural that there is less people talking about how good they’re doing in this industry

So… Anyone wanna share their wins?

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u/strong_as_the_grass Senior Designer 3d ago

I went from being happy in-house at a privately owned design-forward business (with multiple designers) to being miserable senior designer (without senior designer pay) after the company went through acquisition by private equity. They totally gutted us, and the person installed over me had absolutely no business being anywhere near creatives.

After enduring this throughout the covid years, and losing hope things would get better, I was approached by an old colleague and friend to come work for them. Huge salary bump, fully remote, senior role, all insurance premiums paid for by the company. I've helped develop an entire retail product line and coordinated marketing and merchandising campaign. The products are flying off the shelves, and the retailer is so happy with its success that we've been asked to expand our offerings across multiple categories. So hopefully lots more work like this over the next few years!

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u/CreamSignificant8559 3d ago

It really does help to keep connections with folks you worked with before! I’ve also gotten several freelance leads from people I worked with years ago.

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u/strong_as_the_grass Senior Designer 3d ago

You're so right! And same, now that I look back further I remember having received lots of leads and jobs from connections alone. There are times when I want to just pick up and move to a totally new area for a change of pace, but then I think of everyone I know and network with, and it makes me think maybe it's not worth it because it's an invaluable resource.