If you're considering a career in graphic design, you’re probably asking a smart, practical question: what benefits do graphic designers get? It’s a great question—and not just about salary. While passion is the starting point, let’s be honest: health insurance, retirement contributions, paid time off (PTO), and job stability are a big part of the picture too. And if you’re comparing full-time agency roles to the freelance lifestyle, there’s even more to weigh—including how UX designers tend to earn higher salaries in specific sectors. Let’s break down the real, tangible benefits of working as a graphic designer—whether you’re part of... read more →

As a seasoned designer, you’ve probably asked yourself this more than once—especially when the late nights pile up and client edits keep rolling in. The truth? There’s no universal answer. But understanding industry expectations and setting personal boundaries can make all the difference between burnout and balance. Let’s break it down. How Many Hours Does a Graphic Designer Work a Week? On average, full-time graphic designers work around 40 hours per week. That said, the actual hours can vary depending on the role, employer, client load, and industry. Some designers clock in a clean 9-to-5 with minimal overtime. Others—especially freelancers... read more →

Design is more than pretty pictures and color palettes—it’s a business. And if you’ve ever wondered whether a creative career can actually pay the bills, the short answer is yes. Designers—from interiors to fashion to graphics—make money in smart, strategic ways.Whether it’s through freelance gigs, product sales, digital platforms, or teaching, creative professionals are turning their skills into full-time income.And at MOCK, the agency, we know firsthand that great design isn’t just valuable—it’s profitable. Let’s break down how designers across different disciplines make a living doing what they love. How Interior Designers Make Money Interior design is about more than... read more →

If you've ever wondered, how do ad agencies make money?, you're not alone. Most marketing directors and business owners know agencies help brands grow—but the mechanics behind the money? That’s where things get a little foggy. Here’s why it matters: Understanding how agencies generate revenue gives you insider knowledge to make smarter partnerships, better investments, and fairer deals. Most agencies make money through service fees, markups, commissions, and sometimes retainers. The right agency not only delivers killer creative—they also run a business built on execution, strategy, and attention to their clients. Knowing how that business model works helps you get... read more →

Here’s the short answer: not without permission. And if you don’t know that rule, you’re gambling with your credibility. In marketing, design, and creative services, it’s tempting to drop a big name or two. You worked with a Fortune 500 brand or a beloved local chain. Of course you want to say so. But before you casually share that client name on your website, your portfolio, or even in a casual conversation—stop. Because mishandling this could seriously damage your client relationships, break legal contracts, and put your reputation at risk. Even if you’re trying to show your experience, doing it... read more →

If you’ve ever wondered whether graphic design can offer a real, sustainable income, you’re not alone. Marketing directors, aspiring creatives, and career-changers alike all ask the same question: Can I really support a family or live comfortably with a job in graphic design? Spoiler alert—yes, you absolutely can. Let’s break down how graphic design can not only provide income, but also opportunity, security, and a fulfilling lifestyle for those with the right tools and mindset. Why Graphic Design Is Still a Valuable Career Path Graphic design has evolved far beyond logos and brochures. Today, it's at the center of business... read more →

Creativity isn't one-size-fits-all. There are four types of creativity: spontaneous and emotional, spontaneous and cognitive, deliberate and cognitive, and deliberate and emotional. Each one plays a different role in how you generate ideas, solve problems, and connect with an audience. If you’re a marketing director, a designer, or anyone who’s ever been asked to deliver “something creative” on a deadline, you’ve probably felt that pressure. That blank page. That fuzzy feeling of knowing you have ideas—but not knowing how to unlock them. Understanding these types helps you become a stronger creative professional by showing you how your mind works—and how... read more →

As a marketing director, your actions and decisions not only shape the direction of your department, but also impact the lives of those who work under your guidance. Among these responsibilities, treating your employees right stands paramount. This isn't merely a suggestion, it's both a legal requirement and a moral obligation. This is what we'll be covering in today's topic of treating employees right: Why is it important to treat employees right? Do all employees have to be treated equally? What is the Fair Treatment of Employees Act? Do companies have a moral obligation to treat their workers with respect?... read more →

As a marketing director, the importance of being aware of your employees' opinions cannot be overstated. Their perceptions of you - their liking or disliking - and the extent to which they feel heard can have profound impacts on your role as a leader. Here why it matters what your employees think: Listening to your team does more than just foster positive relationships; it can drive productivity, encourage innovation, and enhance team morale. When employees feel valued and heard, they are more likely to trust their superiors and remain loyal to the company. Here's what you can expect to learn:... read more →

If you’re in the world of graphic design—or just getting started in this exciting and lucrative field—you’ve probably wondered: Who is the highest paid graphic designer? While exact earnings aren’t made public, Paula Scher and Stefan Sagmeister are often regarded as two of the highest paid graphic designers in the world—thanks to their iconic client work, global reputations, and premium fees that reflect their industry authority. Understanding what makes these creatives so successful can offer insight into how you can grow your own design career—and maybe even follow in their footsteps. Whether you’re an industry veteran or new talent breaking... read more →