How to Find the Right Graphic Designer

Last month’s blog post was about avoiding design contests for your business. Finding a designer who’s a perfect fit may seem overwhelming, so I’m following up this month with a post about how to find the right graphic designer.

There are a ton of designers out there, all offering different variations of what might seem like the same thing on the surface. One designer might be a wonderful fit for one business but a terrible fit for another. If you ask 10 different professional designers to create your branding, you’ll get 10 different solutions because everyone’s thought process and design style is different.

So how do you know who to pick?!

In this post I’m walking through the steps to help you determine who will be a good fit for your business.

1. Look at the designer’s work. 

Whether a friend refers a designer to you or you’re searching on Google, this is hands down the first step! Do you like their work? Do you find yourself excited and inspired as you look through their website? Would you love to have a design like theirs for your brand? If so, they’ve passed the first test! But if you’re not fond of most of the projects they’ve already created, you probably want to consider removing them from the lineup.

Every designer tends to fall within a style, so if you hire them you’ll likely get something aesthetically similar to what they already have in their portfolio. For example, if you’re looking for a fluid hand-drawn style, a designer with only flat rigid work in their portfolio may not be the best fit for you.

For me personally, while I consider myself a very flexible designer, in general my work tends to be fun and colorful, incorporate geometric shapes and line art, and lean into concept and symbolism.

2. Talk to the designer.

I can’t stress this enough! Always have a conversation with a designer before hiring them, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Every professional designer will likely offer some sort of consultation to help you both get to know each other. A designer who refuses to get on the phone could be a big red flag. It’s important to make sure you’re a good fit for each other. Does the designer seem like someone you’ll get along with if you work together? Are they able to articulate what the process of working with them looks like? Are they able to confidently answer your questions, and do they make you feel comfortable?

With Amp’d Designs, my initial consultations are always free with absolutely no string attached. After you reach out, we’ll chat on the phone to get to know each other. I love hearing more about your business and what you’re most excited about when it comes to your branding or website, and I invite you to ask as many questions as you need about our collaboration.

Design is not just a simple transaction. It’s a big, important investment, one that’s nearly impossible to make through just a few emails. Its success is based on a relationship.

3. Understand the designer’s process.

As noted in point 2, the designer should be able to explain what their process looks like every step of the way—from booking the project through completion and delivery. Is it clear?

Here are a few questions to consider:

• Will the designer start with an exploratory questionnaire or project kick-off meeting?

• How many design options will you see?

• Is there a defined timeline and price?

• Will the designer’s timeline accommodate your needs?

• Do you have the budget to hire them?

• What does the payment schedule look like?

• Is there anything required of you during the process?

• Are there clear final deliverables, and will those deliverables meet your needs?

If any of these questions—or others on your mind—feel left open, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Making sure that everything is clear and defined up front paves the way for a smooth collaboration.

Beyond logistics, does the designer’s process resonate with you? Does it sound like something you would enjoy and get value out of? Do you think it will lead to the best possible outcome for your business? If so, that’s great! If their process is hazy and not very well thought out, or if you aren’t totally onboard with how the designer works, you might want to consider moving on.

Transparency is important to my business, so I outline my design process here on my website. During our initial consultation, I also walk through the fine details for your Branding or Web Design project so you’ll know exactly what to expect.

4. Ensure the design package fits your needs.

Different designers may offer different packages or add-ons for Branding, Web Design, or other services. If you’re investing in something specific, be sure to understand everything that’s included.

For Branding:

• Will you receive multiple logo file types?

• Will you receive a brand guide?

• How flexible will your assets be?

• Will you be able to use them to create other visual graphics later?

For Web Design:

• Will you be able to make edits to your website after it’s live?

• Does the package include copywriting and/or photography, or will you be required to provide those?

• Will you have access to your domain, hosting, and design, or is it kept under the control of the designer?

If a designer offers different package tiers, consider which will serve you best long-term based on your goals for your business. If you have additional needs beyond a package, will that designer still be able to help you or will you need to look elsewhere?

At Amp’d Designs, I offer set packages for Branding and Web Design projects, which are outlined here on my website and explained deeper during our consultation call. I love building long-term relationships with businesses, and my graphic design background allows me to continue collaborating with them on many different types of packaging, print, and digital projects beyond their branding or website.

5. Consider if the designer is qualified.

Design is a professional skill that requires a high level of knowledge and experience. An entirely different level of quality will come from a trained designer versus someone who is perhaps simply a creative-inclined friend-of-a-friend.

Does the designer have an education and/or background in design? Have they worked on a project like yours before? Do they have positive testimonials? Is design their professional career or just a side hobby they picked up? Do they have a proven track record of success? These are all important things to consider when making the big decision.

On my website, I outline my background and experience on my About page and kind words from clients on my Testimonials page to help set your mind at ease.

6. Sense the vibe.

If all of these qualifiers check out, ultimately does the designer seem interested in your project? Did they ask you questions about your business and understand your needs? Did they seem interested to learn more? Chances are that you’re incredibly passionate about your business and you care a lot about the outcome of your branding or website collaboration. You deserve to work with someone who matches your passion and truly believes in your vision.

Beyond that, does the designer seem professional and competent? Do they seem organized and prepared? Again, do they have a clear, understandable project process? Is their pricing somewhat in line with other prices you’re seeing from similar designers? (Remember, a very low price may be enticing, but could also be a red flag.)

And, do your personalities jive? You’re going to be working closely with this person on design that will become the face of your business. This investment is not only in a visual tool but in a long term relationship.

If you’re curious to know more about what the collaboration process looks like with me at Amp’d Designs, please don’t hesitate to reach out! As I mentioned, a consultation is always free. I’m always happy to have a conversation and hear about where you’re at and what you’re looking for. My goal is to help your business find the best direction, whether that means working with me or someone else.

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Whether you’re curious to explore a collaboration, just have a few questions, or simply want to say hello, please get in touch!

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