In order to be an advertising designer, you need at least have a high school education. You may be able to pick up an internship from a freelance or contract graphic designer to learn the ropes. But if you want a bigger paycheck, you need to go to college and at least obtain a bachelor's degree in graphics or some related field.

In Michigan, the average income on an hourly basis is $22.13, and on the higher end is $40.80. The average income on a yearly basis is $46,000, and on the higher end is $85,000. In the US, the average income on an hourly basis is $21.07, and on the higher end is $42.59. The average income on a yearly basis is $43,800, and on the higher end is $88,600.

An advertising designer needs artistic ability, communication skills and a competitive attitude. Having artistic skill will get you noticed by employers. You would need a portfolio to show your skill and creativity. An advertising designer would also need good communications skills. It’s important to be able to interact with your employers and others well in order to finish the project in a professional manner. Knowing your target audience and how to talk to them is also important in advertising design. You have to know how to sell and use marketing skills in order to get the message out to consumers. You also need to be competitive. Know how to get your design out there so that it attracts the attention of others. You will be under pressure with deadlines, so you need to make sure that your design is the one that employers will pick.

Advertising for the future will have the same basics as they do now. Target the audience with campaigns that highly interest them. This connects them to the advertisement and product. Also, you have to generate buzz about what you’re advertising. Possible means could be word of mouth, the internet, networks and a broad general market. The only real improvement in the future will be to the technology which will enhance imaging, visibility and the impact of the messages.

Designers in this field usually work in one of three positions or a combination. They could be graphics designers who work on the layouts and design for ads in various ways. Another would be an art director, which supervise staff and contracts graphic designers. They coordinate everything that happens with the advertising. And lastly, a creative director, which manages the creative department. They work with the graphics and layout and everything else in the project. They make sure the quality is top notch. All of these and be freelance or contracted positions, and they are usually hired by a small or large firm depending on what is wanted.