How to hire a graphic designer
It can be difficult to choose a graphic designer. You know that you will want to work with someone who will understand you and your business, with experience and a professional attitude. But there are hundreds of graphic designers in Kent alone, and thousands across the UK.
These are the main points to look out for when choosing a graphic designer:
Portfolio
Ideally this should include work which is similar to what you require. Look for graphic designers which have the relevant technical skills which they are willing to show off in a portfolio.
Many graphic designers profess to having a huge range of online and offline design skills, which may be the case, but the best way to find the quality of a studio’s work is by looking at previous work. Look for portfolios with design elements which you would like to include, whether this is a corporate, formal design, confidence with bright colours or fun illustrations.
Look for a match of formal art qualifications and technical skills. You will need someone with both artistic vision and technical ability in the relevant software.
Business Skills
But design isn’t everything. You are likely to be looking for a design team which can create a strong business image, and not let artistic licence get in the way of purpose. Ask prospective designers about deadlines and budget and find out how successful they are at managing both. Graphic designers in Kent and across the UK should be able to give examples of how their marketing has translated into return on investment. Every aspect of a design should serve the purpose of communicating something to the viewer.
Attitude
Once you have a selection of possible graphic designers, arrange to meet them. Discuss your ideas and take note of the designer’s attitude. Make sure that your designer is personable and professional; you will have to be in regular contact with them. Look for someone creative too. It might sound obvious, but it is important if you have a vague concept.
They shouldn’t however, be over-enthusiastic and create something which doesn’t fit your specification. Once you meet or speak to your designer they should offer ideas which match your brief.
Good graphic designers will tell you straight away if they cannot create the product which you require. If a graphic designer doesn’t have the adequate technical skills to fit your brief they should tell you.
Also look for someone with time to chat. If you feel rushed by a graphic designer it is unlikely they will have the time to keep checking your project back with you to gain feedback.
References
Many graphic design studios will gladly provide references from happy customers. These may be on their website, in their portfolio, or you could ask for them and follow them up with a quick phone call.
Open Water are a design and branding agency in Kent. They work with large and small clients across the UK and offer a wide range of services, covering everything from brand strategy and print design to web design, flash presentations and HTML email marketing. Design services from Open Water
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