[This article relates to: freelance graphic designer, design jobs, work, graphic design, web design, job search, freelancer, graphic designer search, wanted, portfolio.]
If you're starting a business, already have a business, or are a consultant part-time, you may have been thinking about hiring a freelance graphic designer to help get you started with your marketing materials. Ultimately, a graphic designer communicates your company's message to your customer. But how do you go about landing a graphic designer you'll be happy with? The tips below can help get you on the right path for your next freelance graphic design job.
First decide what you need. If you've written a marketing plan, that will help a great deal. If not, don't worry. Just make a list with your short term marketing needs and your long term marketing needs. For example, if you're a start up business, a short term need might be your company's logo. A long term need might be a print advertising campaign. And, you might want a website somewhere in between. Defining your needs (and how much money you can spend on those needs) will help narrow your search for a freelance graphic designer.
Take a look at marketing from businesses similar to yours, including competitors. What type of logo do they have (and why)? What type of content do they use on their website? What type of look do you want to convey? Bookmark some sites so you'll have some resources to send along to your designer when the time comes. Usually your designer will have more questions about what you want, but the more information the better.
If you are looking to have a logo designed for example, your first instinct might be to hire someone who specializes in logos. This approach has its pros and cons. You may get a great logo designed, but when it comes time to do your website, brochures or direct mail campaign, your logo designer may not deliver the strongest product.
One alternative is to find a great logo designer, then a great web designer, then a great direct mail marketer. The problem with this approach is that your materials may have a disjointed look and feel because each designer will probably have differing styles and sensibilities. Not to mention it requires more work on your part.
Another alternative is to seek a well-balanced designer who has had experience in many different areas. There's a better chance of maintaining a consistent look and feel across all of your marketing materials. Even better if they have an overall focus on brand development. Here's an example of a freelance graphic designer who does that.
So which method is best for you? Well, it depends on your business. What will be the most important aspects of your marketing plan? Is brand most important? Will your website be most important? Is your print advertising campaign most important? Weigh all aspects of your business out to determine which type of designer or designers are best for you.
You've decided what type of designer you want. Now, here are some places to look:
There is no certification for graphic designers, freelance or otherwise. Judging their work is subjective. So if you've narrowed your choice down to a designer, here are some things to check for:
So, you've got a project, you've found your designer and are happy with the rates and timelines. What next? GET EVERYTHING IN WRITING! Also, be prepared to pay 50% of the estimated cost up front. This is standard industry practice. If the timeline has been agreed on, there's no need to hound your designer every 4 hours asking if he's got something to show you. Remember to be patient, and let that creativity breathe. Your project deserves it!
Questions, comments or suggestions? Email TheFGD@freelancegraphicdesigner.info.