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** This is an updated post**

Graphic designers are naturally creative people, so it makes sense that they’re likely to think outside the box when it comes to finding graphic design jobs online.

However, for those new to the industry, a little guidance may be required. Check out our top 6 tips on how to score the best graphic design jobs online.  

1.   Use social networking to make connections? 

Never underestimate the power of a social networking site, such as LinkedIn, when it comes to finding graphic design jobs online. Set up your profile with a thorough resume covering your employment history. 

This enables potential employers to obtain a good understanding of your previous roles and current skill set. If you’re looking for your first job, ensure you invest time writing about the relevant skills, including soft skills you have, that could be applied to a graphic design job. 

Include any skills that you have acquired through work placements, training or qualifications. Remember, searching for jobs while studying a graphic design course can also result in experience and on the job training like no other.

Through LinkedIn, you can search and connect with different people and companies in the graphic design industry. Follow thought leaders who work in the field you want to work in, and find out what other graphic designers are up to.  

Where possible,?follow up with a message?once you’re connected to let them know you’re currently looking for work. You never know where a simple enquiry might lead you.  

You can also set yourself up to receive notifications of any graphic design jobs advertised, and be sure to search and join?dedicated graphic design groups. ? 

While LinkedIn is the most popular networking site for professionals, you can also follow people and companies on other networking sites. Companies that are hiring will advertise on a range of different channels, including social platforms.  

You’ll be surprised how much online ‘word of mouth’ can help you find your next opportunity, and this is the case for sites such as Facebook, too.? 

Letting your friends know?that you’re looking for work is a great way to spread the word. Who knows, that graphic design opportunity may only be an status update away.? 

2.    Sign-up to general job-seeking sites 

Using the most recognised and popular job search sites, such as Indeed.com, is one surefire way of ensuring you’re the first to know about the best and newest advertised graphic design jobs. 

As well as regularly searching these job sites yourself, be sure to set up your own portfolio. Much like professional networking sites, this will enable employers to view your profile. If they’re searching for someone with a particular skill set, you may just appear in their search results.  

It will also enable you to set up?specific job alerts?so that any graphic design jobs will

It will also enable you to set up specific job alerts so that any graphic design jobs will be sent straight to your inbox. 

3.    Specialised job-seeking sites 

As well as registering and regularly searching the more general job sites, it’s important to pinpoint those that are more targeted to both your skill set and the dream graphic design job you’re seeking. 

Sites such as The Loop are dedicated to job seekers and employers within the creative industries. Like any other job site, you can set up your portfolio to be found by employers and be notified as and when new graphic design jobs appear online. 

4.    Connect and register with recruiters 

Searching for and registering with recruiters online is helpful because being on their books means there’s an increased chance that you become privy to jobs that aren’t advertised. 

Many recruiters work so closely with clients that they can revert to their database of current candidates – one of which is you – to find the perfectly qualified someone to fill the role. 

While you may need to go in and formally register at some stage, it’s easy enough to start the process online, particularly in narrowing down the specialised agencies that are best for you. 

All you should wait for then is the calls to come in and your dream graphic design job to land in your lap – once you’ve smashed the interview, that is! 

5.    Connect with alumni

During your studies, it’s likely that you will have befriended other people doing your course – even if you’ve studied online and have only met them virtually. But,?keeping in touch?with them can be a great way to find out about opportunities. ? 

For example, if a fellow graduate finds themselves in a company where an additional graphic design job becomes available, they can let you know immediately. We all know the saying ‘first in, best dressed’.

Connect with your fellow students on whatever platforms they’re using, whether it’s LinkedIn or Instagram. Or even just stay in touch the old-fashioned way - via email or phone.  

6.    Attend an online careers fair 

With technological advancements, it was only a matter of time before careers fairs moved to online venues. 

And in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a safe, virtual space for people to meet has become the norm.  

Back in 2015, the city of Melbourne hosted a virtual job fair – long before health regulations dictated the need for such things. During this online careers fair, virtual students experienced a?simulated exhibition hall, complete with a helpdesk, a networking lounge, live chat and webinars between employers, students and graduates. 

Back then, this was seen as a revolutionary way of allowing people from all over the state easy access to the event without the need for travel, which may have been a barrier for them attending in the first place.  

But in much more recent times, we have seen online careers fairs become a popular alternative.    

You can visit this government website to learn more about upcoming online jobs fairs.  

Are you ready to begin a career in graphic design?

A career in graphic design has a lot to offer creatively minded professionals. It can be fulfilling, exciting, challenging and can offer you plenty of room to grow and hone your skills.  

If you’ve thought about beginning a career in graphic design, one of the best ways to get a foothold in the industry is by studying a course.  

Open Colleges offers two online graphic design courses. 

The CUA50715 Diploma of Graphic Design has been developed to help you gain the skills and knowledge employers are looking for today. It’s designed for people who already have some experience in graphic design and are looking to expand their knowledge?in order to help them find employment.

The CUA50715 Graphic Design Pathway Program has been specially designed for students who want to begin a career in graphic design, but do not have any prior experience. This course is perfect for creative-minded people who are looking to build a strong base of foundational knowledge when it comes to graphic design, before undertaking the Diploma of Graphic Design (which is included in this pathways program).

What are you waiting for? Start studying today and work your way towards a nationally recognised qualification.