Web design, logos, graphics, and ecommerce: Advantages of joining freelance design contests.

As a freelancer, participating in design competitions on crowd-sourcing sites can bring benefits to your graphic design career. Although some are easily turned off by the fact that there is only a small chance that your work will be paid, there are still valuable positives to be gained for your long term career.

Experience

• The process and formulation of your entry will give you practice on designing a project based on the specifications and requirements of your client. It also allows you to get updated with the trends and workings of graphic design in that particular business area. Some contests are open and you can see how other designers present their work and learn new techniques that might help you in your next project.

Exposure

• Your entries that doesn't get selected can still be of use by adding them to your portfolio. They can also be used as references whenever the time comes that you land a project with similar specifications and themes. Potential clients will be given a sample of your work that might be related to their field. Opportunities are limitless and the more your design reaches out to people. the better it is for your career in the long run.

Reputation

• Winning contests or getting high scores on your designs will help you land more bids. Clients will always trust those designers with an extensive portfolio and good crowd sourcing site ratings.