There are a lot of choices when it comes to hiring out design work for your new business. If you are in a pinch, you may just hire the first graphic designer you can find, but for the long-term you will want to make sure vet through all your options. Here are some of the key factors you will want to consider before narrowing down your choices to find a graphic designer that’s right for your business.
Budget
Graphic designers can come in all shapes, sizes and price ranges too! If you are operating with a typical startup business budget, you may be unable to afford the price tag of a big design agency. Not sure of what your budget should be? Do some research first to find some potential candidates and reach out to them. Once you have a range of options, you can compare it to your needs and go from there. Remember a designer’s price range is often based on their experience so be hesitant to always seek out the cheapest option.
How much does a graphic designer cost? Find out here.
Project Type
The mark of a good graphic designer is that they can adapt and change their design style as the project calls for it and mold it to each business’ needs. On the other hand, experienced designers also often adopt and perfect a specific style or set of skills within their work that helps them develop a niche. Some designers may be really adept at hand-lettering and fine art techniques, where other designers excel at layout and print work. Some designers may also specialize their work within a certain industry, like health and wellness or music and entertainment or with a specific clientele. Again, do some research to find a graphic designer with the skills the best suits your needs. If necessary, request portfolio samples from potential candidates that are similar to the project you have in mind.
Location
Will it be important to you that you can meet your designer face-to-face? Or would you be comfortable using email and phone as your primary method of communication with them? Either way, it’s up to you. In my experience, I have found digital communication to work perfectly for the majority of my needs. Some of my clients are local, so if needed I can meet them, but for clients that aren’t local, Skype and Google Hangouts work great! If your project requires a more hands-on approach or extensive consulting, it may be best to find a graphic designer who is local. Plus, supporting your local community is always a good idea!
Personality
This may seem like an odd addition to the list, but personality does matter! You will want to make sure you find a graphic designer that you feel comfortable with and can communicate easily to. You will thank yourself later for this one. If your personalities don’t mesh, it can cause conflict later down the road when it comes to making decisions or giving feedback on their design work. Of course, you don’t have to source your own mini-me or best friend to ensure the success of your design project, but you will want to make sure you find someone you are, in a sense, on the same page with.
You may also be interested in How to Hire a Graphic Designer You Can Trust.
Have you been having trouble finding a graphic designer that’s right for your business? Looking for a graphic designer in the Indianapolis area or someone you can work remotely with? Feel free to reach out to K Design Co. to see if I can help!
I help female entrepreneurs and business owners create brands that command the spotlight. I love working with women to help them create beautiful, one-of-a-kind brands that give them the confidence to take their business to the next level and get them seriously noticed. I’ve worked with coaches, authors, influencers… you name it, and I bet I can help you too.
