- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- design skills and knowledge
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- thinking and reasoning skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- knowledge of English language
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
You day-to-day tasks may include:
- discussing requirements, or ‘briefs’, with authors, editors or designers
- negotiating prices and timescales
- deciding on the right style for illustrations
- creating illustrations using hand drawing, painting or computer design packages
You could work in a creative studio, from home or at a client's business.
With experience and graphic design skills you could work for a design agency, publishing company or magazine. You could also move into specialist work, for example architectural or archaeological illustration.
You can get more details about working in illustration from the Association of Illustrators.
You can get information on working in creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
