Graphic Designer: Year One

Craig Oldham’s booklet, 12 IN 12, is being republished as a limited edition by D&AD. Originally published as a supplemental piece to a lecture he was giving, the book contains an account of lessons learned by the author during his first year as a professional design practitioner.

I remember my first year well and it was nothing short of a nightmare. Craig’s lessons and advice would have been a welcome comfort. Here are his 12 things (abbreviated):

1. Understand what Graphic Design means to you.
2. Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses.
3. A portfolio is for life, not just for an interview.
4. Placements matter. Do them.
5. The Design industry is small, everyone knows everybugger else.
6. Participate with other people and share your ideas.
7. Graphic Design is just a job, but being a designer is different.
8. Fall off your bike. If you don’t fail then you are not trying.
9. Life and work exist outside of London.
10. Designing is only, about, 20% of your job.
11. Have a life outside of Design.
12. Work hard and be nice to people.