ABOUT GRAPHIC DESIGN JOBS - Congratulations. You have decided to take the plunge to become a freelance graphic designer. Besides the requisite specialized course of study in the artistic and technical aspects of the professional, there are other skills and attributes you will need before you will be on your way to a successful career.

First, before you get anything else, you need clients and graphic design jobs. After all, without clients and the revenue they will bring to your business, everything else is secondary. Fundamental to getting business is a basic set of tools: business cards, a brochure or brochures, maybe some business letterhead and envelopes. It is also important to have a professional portfolio which, if you skimp anywhere, none of these should be it. Splurge, present your best work here, because your image is everything to you, and a professional appearance in the tools of your craft as well as your personal appearance tells the world you are someone they should work with.

Next, you need a place to work, along with the tools of your trade. Most graphic designers begin their careers by working from their homes. This is perfectly acceptable, since keeping your overhead costs down in the beginning is critical and it really doesn't matter if you don't have an office since you will probably meet your clients in their own office. Also, as a graphic designer, many of your clients will expect that you will work from your home, so as long as you feel comfortable with meeting clients in your home as the need arises, this is perfectly acceptable. It should also be remembered that in this era of the Internet, many freelance workers have converted to a "virtual" office, where between website, email and other perks, clients can work with you anytime and from practically anywhere.

Regardless of where you work you should have all the tools you need to perform your job, which will include some obvious and not-so-obvious equipment. Among the obvious are the usual supplies of pens, pencils, color tools, a work table and light. Besides these, the not-so-obvious tools can also be important to your image as well as the efficiency of your business. These include an answering machine to avoid missing client calls, bookkeeping supplies and equipment to make sure you get paid (and on time) for your work, and other sundry accoutrements. And especially if you plan to work remotely, you will need an Internet connection and either the skills to manage a website or access to someone with these skills.

Unfortunately, and most importantly, is one item that many business people overlook: a positive and professional attitude. With everything else, there is a good chance that you will score jobs that start you in business, but without a winning smile, a professional demeanor, and a can-do attitude, your efforts will bear little fruit and end up on the pile of good intentions.

A good, positive attitude that delivers more than clients expect will not only get you the work you need to succeed, but will establish your reputation as a talented professional and ensure your success in the future.