Best Graphic Designer Tips: 5 Opportunities in Toronto

Published on 1 August 2023 6 min read

Expand your skills at OCAD University
Network in the Toronto Design Meetup Group
Find opportunities at the Design Exchange
Join the RGD Ontario for professional development
Apply for internships at leading design agencies

Graphic design is a booming industry, and Toronto is a bustling hub for this creative field. If you're looking to tap into the top graphic designer opportunities in Toronto, you've come to the right place. Let's dive in and explore these opportunities, starting with how you can expand your skills at OCAD University.

Expand your skills at OCAD University

OCAD University, located in the heart of Toronto, is a fantastic place for you to take your graphic design skills to the next level. This university offers a range of programs and courses designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this field. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect.

Undergraduate Programs

OCAD University's undergraduate program in Graphic Design is a four-year, full-time program that offers a blend of practical and theoretical learning. You'll get a chance to:

Learn from experienced professionals: This university boasts a faculty comprised of accomplished designers who bring a wealth of real-world experience into the classroom.
Work on practical projects: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, meaning you'll be designing and creating from day one.
Access state-of-the-art resources: OCAD University offers access to top-notch resources and technology, giving you the tools you need to succeed.

If you're ready to dive into one of the top graphic designer opportunities in Toronto, this degree program might be just what you're looking for.

Continuing Education

Not quite ready to commit to a full-time degree program? No worries — OCAD University also offers continuing education courses in graphic design. These courses are perfect for:

Designers looking to brush up on their skills.
Professionals from other fields who want to add graphic design to their skill set.
Aspiring designers who want to get a taste of the field before diving into a degree program.

In short, whether you're looking to start your career in graphic design or you want to enhance your existing skills, OCAD University offers some of the top graphic designer opportunities in Toronto.

Network in the Toronto Design Meetup Group

Now that we've covered education, let's move on to the importance of networking. Networking is a vital part of any career, and graphic design is no exception. One of the top graphic designer opportunities in Toronto is the Toronto Design Meetup Group.

What is the Toronto Design Meetup Group?

The Toronto Design Meetup Group is a community of designers and design enthusiasts who meet regularly to discuss trends, ideas, and opportunities in the design field. This group is not only a forum for discussion, but also a platform for learning and networking.

Learn: From industry talks to hands-on workshops, there's always something new to learn at these meetups.
Connect: Get to know fellow designers, make connections, and potentially find your next job opportunity.
Share: Have an idea or a project you're proud of? Share it with the group and get valuable feedback.

Remember, it's not just about what you know—it's also about who you know. Networking can open doors you didn't even know existed.

How to Get Involved

Getting involved in the Toronto Design Meetup Group is simple. Just sign up, show up, and start connecting! Be prepared to:

Participate in discussions.
Share your work and thoughts.
Be open to learning and to new experiences.

So, if you're looking for a way to connect with fellow designers and tap into the pulse of Toronto's design scene, the Toronto Design Meetup Group is a prime opportunity you don't want to miss.

Find opportunities at the Design Exchange

After you've connected with your peers, it's time to step into the professional sphere. Toronto has a vibrant design culture, and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in it is through the Design Exchange.

Discover the Design Exchange

The Design Exchange (DE) is Canada's only museum dedicated exclusively to the pursuit of design excellence and preservation of design heritage. From architecture and fashion design to graphic design, the DE is a hub of creativity and inspiration. If you're seeking top graphic designer opportunities in Toronto, this is where you want to be.

Exhibits: With a constant rotation of exhibits, the DE is always showcasing the latest and greatest in design.
Events: The DE hosts a variety of events, from design talks to networking events and workshops, providing an excellent place to learn and connect.
Resources: The DE provides a wealth of resources, including a design library and a materials center, to support your design work.

There's so much to see, do, and learn at the Design Exchange. And who knows? You might even find your next big opportunity right there!

Get Involved with the Design Exchange

Becoming part of the Design Exchange is as easy as 1, 2, 3:

Visit their website and sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events and exhibits.
Attend their events and exhibitions—don't forget to bring your business cards!
Consider volunteering or interning at the DE to gain hands-on experience in the design world.

If you're serious about establishing yourself as a graphic designer in Toronto, the Design Exchange is a must-visit. You never know when or where the next opportunity will come from!

Join the RGD Ontario for professional development

The journey to becoming a top graphic designer in Toronto doesn't stop with mastering design skills or networking. Continuous professional development is key to staying relevant in the design field, and the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) Ontario is a great resource for that.

Why RGD Ontario?

RGD Ontario is a hub for graphic designers that offers a platform for connecting, learning, and growing. Joining RGD Ontario can help you keep up with industry trends, develop new skills, and even find new opportunities. Here's what you can expect as an RGD member:

Certifications: RGD offers a professional certification process that is recognized across Canada. This can be a huge boost to your portfolio and your credibility as a designer.
Networking: From design conferences to local meetups, RGD offers plenty of opportunities to connect with other design professionals and potential clients.
Resources: RGD provides access to a range of resources, from job boards to webinars, to help you grow in your career.

Need more reasons to join? RGD Ontario is also committed to promoting professional standards and ethical conduct, advocating for the value of design, and supporting inclusive, sustainable, and accessible design practices. Sounds like a community you'd want to be part of, right?

How to Get Started with RGD Ontario

Ready to kickstart your professional development journey with RGD Ontario? Here's how:

Visit the RGD Ontario website and explore the membership options. Choose the one that best suits your career stage and needs.
Once you're a member, start taking advantage of the many resources they offer. Attend events, go through their webinars, and don't forget to check their job board regularly.
Consider going for RGD certification. It's a rigorous process, but the payoff can be significant.

Joining RGD Ontario could be the next big step in your journey to becoming a top graphic designer in Toronto. So why wait? Get started today!

Apply for internships at leading design agencies

Another fantastic way to carve out a place for yourself at the top of Toronto's graphic design scene is to apply for internships at leading design agencies. Internships give you a chance to gain hands-on experience, learn from industry professionals, and build a strong portfolio.

Why Internships?

Interning at a leading design agency can give your career a major boost. Let's take a look at the benefits:

Real-world experience: Internships offer a golden opportunity to apply what you've learned in a real-world setting. You get to work on live projects, which can be a great learning experience.
Networking: During an internship, you'll meet and work with industry professionals. These connections can be invaluable as you navigate your career.
Portfolio building: The work you do during your internship can be an excellent addition to your portfolio, showcasing your abilities to future employers.

So, are you ready to dive into the world of internships and take a significant step towards becoming a top graphic designer in Toronto?

Landing Your First Internship

Applying for internships can be a bit daunting, but don't worry. Here are some steps to help you get started:

Research leading design agencies in Toronto and identify the ones that align with your career goals.
Prepare a compelling portfolio and resume. Highlight your skills, experiences, and any relevant projects.
Apply for internships at your chosen agencies. Don't be disheartened if you don't get a response immediately. Persistence is key!

Remember, every professional started somewhere. An internship at a leading design agency could be your stepping stone to becoming a top graphic designer in Toronto. So, start applying, and who knows? Your dream internship could be just an application away!

If you enjoyed our blog on the best graphic designer tips and opportunities in Toronto, you might find Jarrett Lampley's workshop, 'Creative Crossovers: Photography & Graphic Design' particularly interesting. This workshop explores the intersections between photography and graphic design, and can help you enhance your skills and create unique visuals for your projects. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an experienced professional in the field and elevate your graphic design work!