Graphic Designer and PR Specialist Report
2008-2018 Job Outlook Comparison
Fayetteville State University
ABSTRACT
This job outlook report examines two particular positions within the communications field, a graphic designer and a public relations specialist. Data was collected from online government resources, such as US Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The job outlook and descriptions were compared to decide which position is more promising in terms of pay rate, required background, working conditions and the overall opportunities that exist.
The report shows changes in the communications field for these positions based from 2008 and calculated until 2018. This research will show the major advantages and disadvantages in entering the field as entry-level or with years of experience. Each position is analyzed to show the amount of positions that are currently occupied and its growing rate.
The report shows PR specialist are highly paid and have chances of socially interacting with constituents to communicate brand identity. The graphic designers are required to be creative and reach deadlines, however much less than the stress of a PR agents. The work environment is more complex for PR specialist and some graphic designers are more flexible to work at home or on-site.
Recommendations for candidates seeking a position in the communications fields are employment within the graphic design sector. This position was selected as it is (1) largely populated, (2) increases with web design skills, and (3) more stress-free than a public relations specialist. With high competition in PR, the graphic designer specialist holds better opportunities within their career by updating skills in current design software and web development courses.
INTRODUCTION
This job outlook for graphic designers and public relations specialists provides insight on forecasting opportunities for employment. With US unemployment rates remaining above average, this report examines the changes in the industry and expectations associated. Recommendations are included for prospects looking to choose and enter one of the given fields.
JOB OUTLOOK COMPARISON
The communications field has two positions that require a special skill when communicating with the public. These fields are different, yet similar in nature. The graphic designer is more visual and public relations specialist is more social. Both these positions require communicating the brand identity of a person, product, or business to increase recognition and drive sales. Listed below is a brief job analysis of each position.
Graphic designers are creative publishers of art who produce print or electronic media as their career. Their duty includes designing memorable and communicative works for clients or employers. (Wikipedia.org/Public_relations, 2010) The provide communication and a visual brand image seen by consumers to enhance the feel, understanding, or position of a particular brand.
Public Relation Specialists maintain the public image of an organization, business, or high-profile individual. (Wikipedia.org/Public_relations, 2010) Their duties include communicating to the public, create growing social relationships, and damage control of one’s brand identity. This may entail publicity events or media interviews.
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
JOB OUTLOOK
The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics rates graphic designer careers to grow as fast as average. There is growing competition in the industry. Graphic designers with advanced skills in web design and animation have the greatest opportunities.
(Graphic Designers Overview, 2010)
REQUIRED BACKGROUND
Most graphic design positions will require a bachelor’s degree in the subject. Candidates are usually required to have skills in problem-solving, communication, creativity, and familiar with up-to-date design software. Some candidates can acquire 2 year associate degrees and certificates to obtain a graphic designer assistant position. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design accredits about 300 post-secondary institutions with programs in art and design. (BLS.gov, 2010) It is standard for a graphic designer to put together a working portfolio of their best works. This is used an example and representation of the designer for consideration during selection process.
PAY SCALE
The average wages for a graphic designer in 2008 was $42,400. Most averaged between $32,600 and $56,620 and lowest 10 percent earned less than $26,110 and the highest 10 percent earned over $74,660. The averages below are categorized into sectors within the industry.
Computer systems design and related services $47,860
Specialized design services 45,870
Advertising, public relations and related services 43,540
Newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers 36,910
Printing and related support activities 36,100
Entry level positions obtained median cash compensation of $35,000 in 2008, according to the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Solo designers, senior designers, and lead supervisors earned a median of $60,000. The chart below shows the percentage of designers within the industry and the corresponding rate of pay.
(Graphic Designers Overview, 2010)
WORKING CONDITIONS
Graphic designers may work in offices within a business or work in their own office or studio. Some are hired for weekly design of promotion material or printed materials for internal or external use. Graphic designers may also work freelance positions which are based on contract or seasonal basis. Consultants and self-employed designers tend to work longer hours and in small, congested environments.
PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST
JOB OUTLOOK
Public relations specialist are expect to increase much faster than the average. There is a competitive natural associated with entry-level candidates. College graduates have greater chance when combining degrees in public relations, journalism, or another communications-related field with a public relations internship or other related work experience.
(Public Relations Managers Overview, 2010)
REQUIRED BACKGROUND
Public relations specialists usually require a bachelor’s degree in public relations. Courses in advertising, business administration, finance, political science, psychology, sociology, and creative writing are helpful when seeking employment. Some companies may require college graduates who have worked in electronic or print journalism and some employers may ask for training and experience within the related industry. Marketing is also helpful for entry-level candidates.
PAY SCALE
The average annual salary for public relations specialists were $51,280 in 2008. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $30,140 and the top 10 percent earned more than $97,910. The median annual wages are listed below:
Management of companies and enterprises $55,530
Business, professional, labor, political, and similar organizations 55,460
Advertising, public relations and related services 55,290
Local government 51,340
Colleges, universities, and professional schools 46,660
(Public Relations Managers Overview, 2010)
WORKING CONDITIONS
Many PR specialist work in busy offices with tight deadlines and schedules. Some work a standard 35 – 40 hour week, yet it is common to work overtime and irregular hours. At times, they are required to be on-call or work around the clock. Quick composition of speeches and meeting agendas may be required for damage control or publicity events. Below are facts about the current working conditions of PR specialists:
- About 25 percent are self-employed; many do freelance work in addition to holding a salaried job in design or in another occupation.
- A bachelor’s degree is required for most entry-level positions; however, an associate degree may be sufficient for some technical positions.
- Job seekers are expected to face keen competition; individuals with a bachelor’s degree and knowledge of computer design software, particularly those with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the job outlook for graphic designers and PR specialists, candidates must be aware of the forecasting of the positions. A graphic designer has many more opportunities as over 200,000 positions exist in this field. A PR specialists must be even more competitive in seeking employment. A bachelor’s degree is necessary for both positions and the more experience a candidate obtains, then the greater chance of becoming recruited.
Salaries for PR specialists are nearly twice the salary of a graphic designer. PR specialists experience more pressure and are required to work irregular hours to satisfy their clients or employer. Some PR specialists are high-profile and represent the brand identity by becoming a spokesperson or promoter of a particular entity. Other positions may only require an associate degree for small, technical jobs.
Graphic designers are required to be creative and most are passionate about their job. It gives them a sense of accomplishment with special attention of their talents throughout the industry. This reputation may aid in seeking greater opportunities or in launching self-employed ventures such as freelancing and seasonal contract work. Unfortunately, graphic designers are less in demand, but stand a greater chance when developing skills in web design and animation.
The job outlook for PR specialist is rewarding based on pay, but the better position would be a graphic designer in near future. Designers with web development capabilities will be in greater demand. This is a great opportunity to compete with the over 200,000 within the field in comparison with only 50,000 of PR specialists’ positions. A graphic designer will have a less stressful workload and capable of gaining experience for increased pay or position.
WORKS CITED
"Graphic Designer." Wikipedia.org. 2010. Web. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphic_designer>. "Graphic Designers Overview." Campus Explorer, Inc (2010): n. pag. Web. 23 Nov 2010. <http://www.campusexplorer.com/careers/632CB2B7/graphic-designers/>. "Public Relations." Wikipedia.org. 2010. Web. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_relations>. "Public Relations Managers Overview." Campus Explorer, Inc(2010): n. pag. Web. 23 Nov 2010. <http://www.campusexplorer.com/careers/026FB81E/public-relations-managers/>. United States. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition - Public Relations Specialists. , 2010. Web. 23 Nov 2010. <http://bls.gov/oco/ocos086.htm> United States. Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition - Graphic Designers. , 2010. Web. 23 Nov 2010. <http://bls.gov/oco/ocos090.htm>.
