Lindsey Komson

The creative industry is rapidly evolving.

Given the rise of new technologies, techniques, and business priorities, there are many new opportunities for those seeking to turn their creativity into a career. One thing that sets the creative field apart from others is that it applies to basically every industry. Whether it’s an airline company, food distributor, healthcare provider, or your typical advertising agency, there is a growing need for creatives everywhere.

When it comes time to enter the workforce and start your career journey, it’s important to identify your strengths and interests to find a role that resonates with you. Here are some career options to consider when assessing your skill set:

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers create marketing-related visuals to be shared on many different mediums. Graphic design is everywhere – from billboards to websites to cereal boxes and newspapers. Designers are extremely important to any business because they help share a business’ message with the world. To become a designer, you should have experience in the Adobe Creative Suite, knowledge of design principles, great communication skills, and the ability to work with a team.

Web Designer

Web designers use graphic design and/or coding skills to create visually appealing, effective websites.There are several paths you can take as a web designer. Generally, web designers handle the front or back end of website development. People who work on the front-end are concerned with a website’s look and feel, layout, and arrangement. Back-end developers work on the code that creates the framework of a website. Depending on the specific job, web designer positions may require graphic design skills, coding skills, or a mix of both.

Motion Designer

If you’re more interested in dynamic designs, consider a career in motion design. According to CreativeLive, “motion designers leverage graphic design skills to create web, television, and film content with animation and visual effects that put their art into motion.” Motion design requires extensive knowledge of programs like Adobe AfterEffects, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro.

Illustrator

Illustrators take a more traditional approach to art, creating drawings either physically or digitally. Like graphic design, illustrations are everywhere as well – from book covers to greeting cards to product packaging or other forms of digital art. Many companies need illustrators, such as publishing houses or advertising agencies. Adobe Illustrator or Procreate are two softwares essential for creating illustrations.

Content Creator

If you’re hoping to direct your creative skills towards a specific audience, consider a career as a content creator. These individuals create content for a range of platforms – social media, bogs, newsletters, podcasts, and more. According to HubSpot, “Successful content creators balance creative skills with the ability to research and analyze data and consumer habits.” If you’re a creative with an analytical mind (like myself!), maybe content creation is for you.

Social Media Marketer

Social media marketers work with creatives to market a business, service, or idea. These professionals manage a company’s presence on social media, practice community management, and can also create content for social channels if on a smaller team. Excellent communication skills, creative spirit, and knowledge of social channels is essential for this role.

Copywriter

If creative writing is your style, check out careers as a copywriter. Copywriters write clear, persuasive content that encourages people to engage with a business. From blog writing for big companies to creating website copy and product descriptions for small businesses, copywriting skills are present just about anywhere there’s text.

These are just some of the creative careers out there, and choosing yours requires time, reflection and patience. After all is said and done, make sure to do your research and invest your time into a fulfilling career.