what do GD firms look for in a designer?

[razuel]

If you were hiring someone for a graphic/web design position and you're from a major graphic design firm

Which design would you be more interested in-- as far as hiring the designer?

http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=js4ni2.jpg
(this would be in flash, on mouseover of circles the page name changes-- maybe change themes of this too with diff color pictures)

or

http://img99.imageshack.us/my.php?image=js2as6.jpg



I'm a college student and I'm basically trying to find out what companies look for in a designer-- something more simple and elegant or something a little more 'cool' and 'pretty'.

Any advice/comments would be helpful.

[cornfed]

I think that would depend on the clientele of the firm. Perhaps before you send out resumes to places you could look at their site to determine what type of clients they focus on.

[razuel]

Yes, but what about for portfolio web sites-- should I create two for each type of firm?

[MikeTheVike]

I like the second one myself. I think the contents of your portfolio is going to be more important. You need more than porjects that look "cool", they should have substance, with a good idea backing the artwork.

[PrintDriver]

Nothing says you can't compartmentalize a portfolio website.

And it's true, you need to figure out what a potential company is looking for in a designer. It varies with clientele. Or choose a niche.

[popejoydesign]

Me personally, when I am looking for a designer, I am looking for one with their own style, their own train of thought. In saying that I wouldn't favor the second one because of the quote...be your own voice, I want a designer who can go his/her own way. Not that I don't like the design but the quote turns me off. Maybe if you replaced it with some other text more from you or even something else. Just my opinion.

[razuel]

Thanks for the comments everyone, much appreciated.