17 Graphic Design Intern Interview Questions and Answers

Graphic design interns help create the look and feel of advertisements, company logos, websites, and other marketing materials. They may also be responsible for the layout and design of books, magazines, and other printed materials.

To be successful in a graphic design interview, you’ll need to be able to talk about your design process, your favorite software programs, and your experience with different types of media. You’ll also need to be able to answer some basic questions about your design style and your favorite designers.

In this guide, you’ll find a list of common graphic design interview questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

Are you familiar with the Adobe Creative Suite?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience with the software they use in their company. If you are not familiar with it, consider asking them what programs they use and researching those before your interview.

Example: “I am very familiar with Adobe Creative Suite. I used it throughout my graphic design degree program and also during an internship at a marketing firm last summer. The company I worked for primarily used InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop, so I learned how to use those programs well. I’m happy to learn any new programs that will help me do my job better.”

What are some of the most important skills for a graphic designer?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills needed for a graphic designer. They want someone who can create visually appealing designs that are also easy to read and understand. When answering this question, think about what skills you have that would be useful in this role. You could also talk about some of the skills you’re hoping to develop while working as an intern.

Example: “I believe communication is one of the most important skills for a graphic designer. I am always making sure my team members know exactly what I’m doing and when it will be done. Another skill I find helpful is creativity. I enjoy coming up with new ideas and ways to improve projects. Finally, I think attention to detail is very important. I like to make sure all of my work is error-free before submitting it.”

How do you stay creative when working on repetitive projects?

Graphic designers often work on repetitive projects, such as designing logos or creating advertisements. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the creativity and problem-solving skills needed for this role. In your answer, explain how you stay motivated when working on similar tasks. Share a few techniques that help you remain creative throughout your day.

Example: “I find it helpful to take small breaks while working on repetitive projects. I usually get up from my desk every hour or so to stretch my legs and give myself a mental break. Another thing I do is try to switch things up by using different tools or methods of design. For example, if I am designing a logo, I will use different colors or fonts to keep things interesting.”

What is your favorite project that you’ve worked on in a graphic design capacity?

This question can give the interviewer insight into your design process and how you approach projects. Your answer should include a brief description of the project, what you enjoyed about it and why you chose that particular project as your favorite.

Example: “My favorite project was for an advertising campaign for a new line of children’s toys. I worked with the client to create colorful characters that were fun but also educational. The client loved my designs so much that they used them in all their marketing materials, including billboards and print ads. It was rewarding to see my work on display everywhere.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to use your research skills to find information about a client’s target audience.

Graphic designers need to be able to do their own research about the target audience of a client. This question helps employers understand how you will use your skills and knowledge to help them succeed as an organization.

Example: “I had a client who wanted to create a logo for a new line of children’s clothing. The client was looking for something that would appeal to both boys and girls, but also convey a sense of fun and whimsy. I researched several different companies that made clothes for kids, and found out what they did well in terms of marketing and branding. I used this information to help my client develop a more effective brand strategy.”

If a client gave you conflicting instructions, how would you handle it?

Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and confidence to handle challenging situations. In your answer, show that you can use problem-solving skills to find a solution that works for both parties.

Example: “If I ever had conflicting instructions from a client, I would first try to clarify what they want me to do. If it’s something I can’t change, I would explain why I can’t follow their request. For example, if a client wants a logo in blue but all of our other branding is in red, I would tell them we need to stick with the existing colors. Then, I would offer to create a new color scheme based on their preferences.”

What would you do if you were assigned a project that you were unfamiliar with?

Employers ask this question to see how you handle challenges. They want to know that you are willing to learn and apply yourself to the task at hand. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to research the project and complete it successfully.

Example: “If I was assigned a project that I wasn’t familiar with, I would first ask my supervisor for more information about the project. If they didn’t have time to discuss it with me, I would look up similar projects online to get an idea of what is expected. Then, I would speak with my team members who worked on similar projects to find out what their experiences were.”

How well do you handle criticism?

As a graphic designer, you may receive feedback from your supervisor or client. Employers ask this question to make sure you can take constructive criticism and use it to improve your work. In your answer, explain that you are open to receiving feedback and how you use it to grow as a designer.

Example: “I am always eager to learn more about design and my craft. I find that when I receive constructive criticism, I use it to improve my skills and become a better designer. When someone gives me feedback on my work, I thank them for their time and attention. Then, I try to understand what they mean by their critique. After that, I think of ways I could apply the feedback to my own work.”

Do you have any questions for me or for the team?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you’ve done your research and are interested in learning more about their company. It’s also a chance for you to ask any questions you have about the internship or the graphic design team.

Example: “I noticed on your website that you’re looking for new interns every semester. I’m wondering if there’s an application process I can be aware of so I can apply before the deadline. Also, I’d love to learn more about how you select interns. Do you have a committee that reviews applications? If so, what criteria do they use?”

When is it appropriate to use humor in a design?

Employers ask this question to see if you can use your creativity and problem-solving skills to create a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and effective. Use examples from previous projects where humor was an important part of the overall message or theme.

Example: “I think it’s always appropriate to use humor in graphic design, as long as it fits with the brand and doesn’t detract from the main purpose of the project. For example, I worked on a campaign for a new line of children’s toys last summer, and we used humor throughout all of our designs because the company wanted to appeal to parents who were looking for fun toys their kids could play with. In another instance, I created a series of memes for a social media campaign that helped promote a new product.”

We want to improve our social media presence. What would you do to increase our engagement on our company accounts?

Social media is an important part of any company’s marketing strategy. Employers want to know that you understand the importance of social media and how it can help their business. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to increase engagement on a company’s social media accounts.

Example: “I think one way to improve engagement on social media is by creating content that people will find interesting or share with others. I would research popular hashtags related to our industry and create graphics using those hashtags so we could reach more people who are interested in similar topics. Another thing I would do is make sure all of our posts have relevant images. People are more likely to engage with a post if they like the image.”

Describe your process for creating a logo from scratch.

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and creativity. It also allows the interviewer to see how you apply your knowledge of design principles, color theory and typography to create unique logos for clients.

Example: “I start by researching my client’s brand identity and what they want their logo to convey. I then sketch several ideas on paper before moving onto digital platforms like Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop. After creating multiple concepts, I present them to my supervisor for feedback. Once we agree on one concept, I refine it until it meets all company standards.”

What makes you stand out from other graphic designers?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you would fit in with their team. They want to know what makes you unique, so share a few of your strongest skills or talents that relate to graphic design.

Example: “I think my ability to work under pressure is one of my greatest strengths as a graphic designer. I am always able to meet deadlines even when there are many projects going on at once. Another strength of mine is my creativity. I have always been naturally creative, which has helped me develop my skills as a graphic designer. I also enjoy learning new things, so I am constantly researching new techniques and programs.”

Which industries do you most want to work in?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a passion for their industry. They want interns who are excited about the work they do and will be able to contribute ideas that fit with the company’s goals. Before your interview, research the company’s website and social media accounts to learn more about what they do. Think of industries that match up with what they do or companies that offer similar services.

Example: “I’ve always been interested in fashion design, so I would love to work at a clothing brand. I think my skills as a graphic designer could help create stylish advertisements and websites that attract customers. I also really enjoy working on logos and branding, so I’d like to work for a sports team or athletic apparel company.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of a successful design?

This question can help the interviewer understand your design philosophy and how you approach a project. Your answer can also show them what skills you have that will be useful in their company.

Example: “I think the most important aspect of a successful design is understanding the client’s needs. I always make sure to ask questions about what they want from the design, so I can create something that meets those expectations. It’s also important to me to use my creativity to come up with unique solutions for each project. I try not to rely on stock images or templates as much as possible.”

How often do you update your skills and knowledge as a graphic designer?

Employers want to know that you are committed to your career and continuously learning new skills. They may ask this question to see if you have a plan for self-improvement or if you’re open to suggestions from them about how to improve as an intern. In your answer, explain what steps you take to learn more about graphic design. Share any online resources you use or books you read.

Example: “I am always looking for ways to improve my skills as a graphic designer. I recently took a course on Udemy where I learned some new techniques for designing websites. I also subscribe to several graphic design blogs so I can stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the industry. Another thing I do is look at other designers’ portfolios to get inspiration for my own work.”

There is a new technology that could drastically change how you design. How do you react to it?

This question is a great way to see how an applicant will react to new technologies and whether they are willing to learn. It also shows the interviewer that you’re open to change and growth. When answering this question, it’s important to show your willingness to adapt to new technology while still maintaining your current skills.

Example: “I think it’s exciting when there’s a new technology that could drastically change how we do things. I would be eager to learn about it and try it out for myself. If it seems like something that could benefit my work, I’d definitely want to incorporate it into my design process. However, if it doesn’t seem like something that would help me in my role, I would continue using what I know until I feel comfortable learning something new.”