how to display credentials (aka qualifications)?

[dayna]

Im in australia, so hopefully someone also from australia can answer this for me.

On my business cards i want to display my qualifiations under my name.. how is this appropriate in australia?

I have a diploma of graphic design majoring in advertising.

I imagine it would go something like this... but im not too sure

MY NAME
Dip GrDesign (ad.)

or

MY NAME
Dip GD (advert.)

[Eggles1]

Im in australia, so hopefully someone also from australia can answer this for me.

On my business cards i want to display my qualifiations under my name.. how is this appropriate in australia?

I have a diploma of graphic design majoring in advertising.

I imagine it would go something like this... but im not too sure

MY NAME
Dip GrDesign (ad.)

or

MY NAME
Dip GD (advert.)

I'm an Aussie, so maybe my input would help. I would spell it out Dip Graphic Design or even Diploma of Graphic Design. I don't like the GrDesign. No-one would know what that means (sounds like you're angry about something). I also don't think GD on its own is enough either - potential clients receiving your BC may not have a clue what it means (most people don't know what Graphic Design means either, but that's beside the point). As to including the advertising part... first, it should be capitalised, whether you use Ad or Adv or Advert, or go the whole way and spell out Advertising. Just make sure that ot's in a smaller font than you name (which shouldn't be all capitals).

[Broacher]

I'm really questioning what including any of that will actually mean to sales.

I'm not sure it would do anything for me--unless accompanied by a positively brilliant, innovative, or memorable design in the card itself. If it's just an 'average' looking designer card, then I find I'm more tempted to look for flaws when I see credential claims.

[Kool]

Arrrr.. I would'nt be calling meself a Dip either.

[Six]

I am not from Australia, but as someone who does hiring and firing I first look at a person's creativity as expressed in the card's design. If I am considering hiring them full time, the issue of diplomas can be dealt with during the interview. If I am hiring them for freelance, diplomas don't matter to me. Talent and experience revealed in their portfolio are what I look for.

I say no credentials on a card other than some brief decription of what you do, like "Graphic Designer" or "Web Design" and/or maybe a short list of areas of specialization.

Six

[Broacher]

There is a possible exception in Canada. In Ontario, we have the 'RGD' program, which--and this is still very controversial in the trade--is a trade-regulated designation, though not universally embraced. It stands for "Registered Graphic Designer" and basically, if you qualify and become a due-paying member of the RGD, you're entitled (and encouraged) to include in your correspondence. It's been around for a decade now, and I can't honestly remember anyone ever discuss this qualification as part of the talent selection process. Although, I understand it's 'supposed to' be part of any Ontario government commisioned work tender, or hiring.

[Ned]

Arrrr.. I would'nt be calling meself a Dip either.

Aye aye to that, matey! :D

[dayna]

haha ok thanks for all the replies... all your info was a great help

[cgmpowers]

I wouldn't put my degree on my business card, that's really for the resume.

However, I am a member of GAG & AIGA and that I do put on my business card, right after my name in smaller type. I also add that to my resume under professional affiliations.

Chris Powers

I am not from Australia, but as someone who does hiring and firing I first look at a person's creativity as expressed in the card's design. If I am considering hiring them full time, the issue of diplomas can be dealt with during the interview. If I am hiring them for freelance, diplomas don't matter to me. Talent and experience revealed in their portfolio are what I look for.

I say no credentials on a card other than some brief decription of what you do, like "Graphic Designer" or "Web Design" and/or maybe a short list of areas of specialization.

Six