With remote working setting the stage as a new global standard, and the massive growth of online business, a businesses digital presence and brand design is in the forefront of many users minds. If you're ready to take the next step in hiring a designer for your brand, logo, web design, social media, or campaign, here are some tips to make your time working together productive and successful.
Assess the Market: Before hiring, think about your target audience and competitors. The best way to do this is through market research and the discovery of brands and styles you admire. Websites like www.Dribbble.com and www.Behance.com are great for getting inspired, plus knowing your own preferences will save you time and money when it’s time to hire.
Entry or Upper-Level Hire?: Some clients are experienced in design and have a well-rounded idea for their project, making them prepared to guide another person according to their vision. If this sounds like you, then you’re in the market to hire an entry-level designer. Entry-level designers are good at executing an existing concept and typically need more direction. On the other hand, if you’re new to the design world, and seek the expertise of a designer to guide you through the process, you’d be best hiring an upper-level designer. Designs with 5+ years experience create completed concepts based on your consultations, indicative of a higher skill level. Their designs showcase different strategies to your vision, all with as much or as little involvement from you as you prefer.
Style Matters: Most designers are flexible, but tend to lean toward certain programs or methods. After you’ve assessed your preferences, you may realize that a number of your favorite designs have graphic illustrations. If that’s the case, then you should seek a designer who excels in Illustrator or Affinity. If your inspiration board is full of complex photograph edits and videos, an expert in Photoshop or FinalCut would be a good choice. Before hiring, ask your potential hires which two programs they are most confident in so you can get a feel of what to expect.
Get Involved: Just as you’d make yourself available for questions and guidance for an employee or team member, you should make yourself available to answer questions from your designer. If you’re on a tight schedule, lay out some good times to contact you, or keep things organized with an email chain. In clearly communicating your needs and answering their questions with respect, you’ll build a lasting relationship with your hire that grows as your business thrives.
Be Supportive: When you hire a freelancer, you’ve just named yourself manager! Encourage work through positive reinforcement and try not to focus on only the negative. When in doubt, provide feedback using the ‘compliment sandwich’. Choose one thing you like about the design, deliver what you don’t like about the work, and close out with one more positive note about the project or designs so far. For example; “I love the colors you’ve chosen for the logo, however, I know we discussed including more plant imagery. Can you please include some more natural elements? Overall, this is a step in the right direction. Thank you!” A little bit of respect and positivity go a long way!
Were these concepts helpful to you in your process? Let us know in the comments!
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