What if your graphic design team could double its output without doubling the workload? For many leaders, that’s no longer just wishful thinking — it can be a reality thanks to generative AI.
This exciting technology, which can create new content based on patterns it learns from existing data, helps designers work faster and smarter. From brainstorming to final execution, AI tools are enhancing creativity while making the design process more efficient.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry. Generative AI tools like Adobe Sensei and Midjourney are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, so you and your team can hit the ground running. Here’s an overview of how these tools are already transforming the creative industry.
AI: The New Design Assistant
Research from Robert Half reveals that 47% of marketing and creative managers are either using or planning to use AI for data analysis and reporting. This approach lets designers quickly sift through massive amounts of customer data, campaign metrics and market trends, helping them craft more data-driven visual strategies.
LUCY MARINO
But AI’s role goes beyond crunching numbers. In the same survey, 41% of managers said they’re using AI for content creation. For graphic designers, this means AI is helping with tasks like producing visual assets, composing layouts and sparking new ideas.
Imagine a designer working on social media posts for a product launch. Traditionally, they’d spend hours brainstorming, sketching and tweaking concepts. With generative AI, they can input a simple description or rough sketch and instantly receive several design options. These AI-generated concepts give designers a strong starting point, freeing them to focus on fine-tuning and personalizing the final product.
Generative AI is also helping brands stay visually consistent. Maintaining a cohesive look is often tricky for larger companies with multiple team members producing marketing materials. AI tools can analyze existing brand assets and recommend color schemes, typography and layouts that align with established guidelines, saving time and ensuring a unified brand presence across all visuals.
Upskilling: A Key To Developing AI Proficiency
As generative AI becomes increasingly prevalent in graphic design, it’s vital to help your team leverage these tools. Robert Half’s research shows that 52% of marketing and creative managers are getting the message, upskilling employees to bridge skills gaps. For your graphic designers, critical learning areas include:
- Prompt Writing For Design Generation — how to give AI the right prompt, or instructions, to create designs that match their vision
- Tool-Specific Training For AI Software — how to use specific AI features built into design tools they already use
- Ethics and AI Visual Communication — how to use AI responsibly by avoiding biased outputs, ensuring originality and respecting copyright laws
Alongside formal training programs, encourage your team to collaborate and share their learnings. You could try fun initiatives like friendly competitions, where team members compete to develop the best prompt or design using generative AI — with a prize for the winner. It’s a great way to motivate the team and spark new ideas while everyone sharpens their skills together.
Hiring For The AI Future
As teams continue to integrate AI into their daily tasks, hiring trends are shifting. Robert Half found that 69% of marketing and creative managers are rethinking the skills they need due to advancements in AI and automation. And 30% are bringing in contract or consulting professionals for AI projects. Among the hottest roles right now?
Graphic designers and web designers, both increasingly requiring generative AI proficiency.
When evaluating candidates for these positions, here are a few things to look for:
- Portfolios that highlight how applicants have integrated AI into their design processes
- Experience using AI-powered tools like Adobe Firefly and DALL-E
- The ability to strike a balance between AI assistance and human creativity
During interviews, ask candidates how they’ve used AI in past projects or plan to incorporate it into their workflow. This helps you gauge their specific technical skills and their ability to adapt to new technologies in general.
Overcoming AI Integration Challenges
While the benefits of generative AI are clear, your team may show some resistance. Some designers might worry about losing their jobs, while others may be reluctant to learn new tools. Here’s how you can smooth the transition:
- Provide clear “do’s and don’ts” on AI use within your organization
- Encourage experimentation and learning from AI-assisted “failures”
- Celebrate successful AI integrations to boost team morale
Above all, make sure your team stays focused on the main goal: using AI to boost creativity and get things done faster.
AI: Your Team’s New Creative Partner
Generative AI isn’t just changing how graphic designers work — it’s opening up new possibilities in visual communication. If you’re a creative leader, showing your team how to put this technology to work can give your company or agency a competitive edge.
Start by taking a look at your team’s current AI proficiency and figuring out where they can grow their skills. Invest in training programs and look for new talent with AI expertise. Most important, create a culture that views AI as a tool to boost human creativity, not replace it. The future of graphic design is here, powered by the perfect mix of human ingenuity and robotic precision. Are you ready to lead your team into this exciting new era?
BY LUCY MARINO, executive director of the marketing and creative practice at global talent solutions firm Robert Half which connects employers with skilled marketing, creative, digital, advertising and public relations professionals to meet their specialized recruiting needs. Marino manages strategy and operations for the company’s marketing and creative talent solutions teams across U.S. locations.
