Finding a Job After Graduation

Graduating is an exciting and rewarding milestone, especially after all the hard work you put in, but finding a new job in a competitive industry can be a challenge itself. With the right approach however, you can secure a role that aligns with your skills and expectations. This is a guide to help you navigate that transition from being a student to a professional interior designer:

Build a Strong Portfolio:

A portfolio is a very strong asset when applying for Interior Design jobs and can help you stand out. Your portfolio should showcase your creativity, skills and understanding of design principles, a design portfolio doesn’t have to pertain to a specific project it can be a combination of assignments or design experience generally.

It’s important that your portfolio is well presented, easy to navigate and includes a mix of hand sketches, technical drawings, presentation boards and completed renders. A digital portfolio on a website or PDF format can make it more accessible to potential employers.

Gain Work Experience

Having practical experience is crucial, there are different ways to gain some work experience, look at options such as work placements, volunteering with design firms and freelancing for small projects.
Any design experience even if it is short term can help you to build a network and gain that hands on experience that will make you stand out.
 

Network

Networking can open doors to job opportunities that aren’t publicly advertised. Think about attending industry events, trade shows and design exhibitions.

Joining a professional organisation such as the British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) or the International Interior Design Association will also expose you to opportunities to increase your network.

Connecting with professionals on LinkedIn and following design firms on social media is also a good way to build relationships with industry professional which in turn can lead to potential job opportunities.

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Your CV should be concise and highlight relevant skills such as space planning, software proficiency (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit), and project management.

Your cover letter should be tailored to each job application, showcasing your enthusiasm for the role and how your skills align with the company’s vision.
 

Stay Updated with the Interior Design Industry

The interior design industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, materials, and technologies emerging every year. Staying updated is crucial for interior designers and by keeping up with industry developments, you can enhance your creativity, improve your skills, and stay competitive in the job market

Following leading Interior Design publication such as Dezeen, Architectural digest and Frame magazine are excellent sources for the latest Interior design trends and insights as well as attending trade shows and engaging with the interior design communities. 
To conclude, breaking into the interior design industry after graduation requires a combination of hard work, networking, and strategic job searching. By building a strong portfolio, gaining practical experience, and staying engaged with industry trends, you’ll increase your chances of getting your first job. Keep persevering and best of luck!