YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
FINDING THE RIGHT DESIGNER
I know that finding the right graphic designer for your brand can be a daunting task. Despite their individual talents, many graphic designers actually fit the stereotype of not delivering on-time or providing something completely different than what you had originally agreed to – this is no secret. However, there are great graphic designers out there that will deliver exactly what you expect, on time and on budget. You simply need to know the signs to finding a great graphic designer who will thrill you beyond belief...and then some.
GET IT IN WRITING
The first sign of knowing whether or not you are working with a design professional who is trustworthy is how detailed of an estimate they provide. Do they outline the process, step-by-step, so that you both know exactly what to expect and when? Is the estimate itemized so that you know what each phase of the process will cost? Did this person deliver their estimate on-time? Does their estimate explain the terms and usage of the artwork so that there are zero surprises later? Is the estimate, itself, written clearly without any typos and does it all make sense the first time you read it? Or, is there verbiage that you do not understand that raises a red flag?
STYLE FOR STYLE
Another good idea to keep in mind when you are searching for a great graphic designer is to know what style fits your brand. Is your brand vintage or grunge with distressed letters and/or backgrounds? Or, is your brand modern and sleek with minimal color and simple, clean design? This is very important to know and understand before you choose your designer.
Most designers will have a specific look or style about their artwork. Some will be subtle while others will be obvious. Finding a graphic designer who enjoys creating designs in your needed style is the best way to get the most bang for your buck. Most graphic designers can do almost any style, but if you choose someone whose style reflects your brand, you're more certain to end up with what you want.
FAIR VALUE
Don't devalue your designer's capabilities simply to save money. Working with your designer to mediate fair market value for your project based on his or her expertise and the demands of the project will tell your designer that you value what they bring to the table.
TRUST THE EXPERTS
Last, but certainly not least, once you decide to hire the designer of your choice, try to remember why you hired them in the first place. Many clients will hire an artist because of a specific style or project in their portfolio, then make demands based on personal likes or dislikes that have nothing to do with the brand. Therefore, sabotaging their own project.
The first round of any designs are usually the strongest. Let your designer present what they think is best for your brand before you start making any design changes. Work with your designer, not against, to help your designs grow organically. The best designs are the ones that end up looking effortless and on the mark.
_______________________
Recommended Reading:
5 Tips for Choosing a Graphic Designer -- Quickbooks
How To Hire A Great Graphic Designer -- Business Insider
I have been a professional graphic designer for 30 years now, yet I will never understand why many clients skimp on the one thing that not only ties your brand collateral all together, but gives your brand instant recognition, good or bad -- graphic design.
The overall look and design of your brand -- whether you are a sole practitioner, a small business or a large corporation -- should be a very important element of your overall plan for success. Skimping on graphic design is never a wise choice. It could mean the difference between customers trusting your business and viewing you as an expert OR being viewed as someone with bad taste who knows not what they do. It can be as simple as that. Whether you meet someone in person and hand them your business card or someone finds you online, the first impression is what will drive them to call you for business, or not.| JosephRey.us |
FINDING THE RIGHT DESIGNER
I know that finding the right graphic designer for your brand can be a daunting task. Despite their individual talents, many graphic designers actually fit the stereotype of not delivering on-time or providing something completely different than what you had originally agreed to – this is no secret. However, there are great graphic designers out there that will deliver exactly what you expect, on time and on budget. You simply need to know the signs to finding a great graphic designer who will thrill you beyond belief...and then some.
GET IT IN WRITING
The first sign of knowing whether or not you are working with a design professional who is trustworthy is how detailed of an estimate they provide. Do they outline the process, step-by-step, so that you both know exactly what to expect and when? Is the estimate itemized so that you know what each phase of the process will cost? Did this person deliver their estimate on-time? Does their estimate explain the terms and usage of the artwork so that there are zero surprises later? Is the estimate, itself, written clearly without any typos and does it all make sense the first time you read it? Or, is there verbiage that you do not understand that raises a red flag?
STYLE FOR STYLE
Another good idea to keep in mind when you are searching for a great graphic designer is to know what style fits your brand. Is your brand vintage or grunge with distressed letters and/or backgrounds? Or, is your brand modern and sleek with minimal color and simple, clean design? This is very important to know and understand before you choose your designer.
Most designers will have a specific look or style about their artwork. Some will be subtle while others will be obvious. Finding a graphic designer who enjoys creating designs in your needed style is the best way to get the most bang for your buck. Most graphic designers can do almost any style, but if you choose someone whose style reflects your brand, you're more certain to end up with what you want.
FAIR VALUE
Don't devalue your designer's capabilities simply to save money. Working with your designer to mediate fair market value for your project based on his or her expertise and the demands of the project will tell your designer that you value what they bring to the table.
TRUST THE EXPERTS
Last, but certainly not least, once you decide to hire the designer of your choice, try to remember why you hired them in the first place. Many clients will hire an artist because of a specific style or project in their portfolio, then make demands based on personal likes or dislikes that have nothing to do with the brand. Therefore, sabotaging their own project.
The first round of any designs are usually the strongest. Let your designer present what they think is best for your brand before you start making any design changes. Work with your designer, not against, to help your designs grow organically. The best designs are the ones that end up looking effortless and on the mark.
_______________________
Recommended Reading:
5 Tips for Choosing a Graphic Designer -- Quickbooks
How To Hire A Great Graphic Designer -- Business Insider
