In a typical work setting, art directors:

Interpersonal Relationships

• Have a high level of social interaction. They constantly work with customers and creative staff.
• Are greatly responsible for the work done by designers, artists, photographers, and others.
• Work with teams or groups of people. It is extremely important for art directors to know how to select and work with teams.
• Are sometimes placed in conflict situations. Clients and creative staff may disagree over the direction of a project.
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• Communicate daily with customers and coworkers by phone, e-mail, and in person.
• Work in a competitive environment.

Physical Work Conditions

• Work indoors in offices.

Work Performance

• Must be very exact and complete in their work. Errors can be expensive to fix and may ruin the look of the project.
• Can set most of their own task and goals. They rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision.
• Make decisions often that affect other people and their company. This includes personnel and design decisions.
• Must meet strict deadlines everyday.

Hours/Travel

• Work a regular schedule.
• Generally work more than 40 hours per week. May work on the weekends to meet deadlines.
• May travel to clients' offices.