How To Choose 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. With so many graphic designers in Kent and across the UK it helps to know what to look out for.

These are the main points to look out for when choosing a graphic designer:

Portfolio

Looking at a designers portfolio is an easy way to get an idea of the quality of their work. Ideally this should include work which is similar to what you require. If you want brochures, signage or website design choose a studio with relevant skills, and skills which they are proud enough to show 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 studios work is by looking at previous work. Make sure that the portfolio has design elements which you are hoping to implement, whether this is an emphasis on strong photography, confidence with bright colours or an ability to create a corporate, serious design.

Look for a match of formal art qualifications and technical skills. It is of no use to hire a graphic designer with artistic ability but cannot transfer that onto a computer, just as it is not useful to use a graphic designer who can create technical projects which look unappealing artistically.

Business Skills

But design isnt 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 your designers about their previous projects which are similar in deadline and budget to your own. Graphic designers in Kent and across the UK should be able to give examples of how their marketing has translated into return on investment. When looking at a designers previous work bear in mind that every single aspect of design should serve the purpose of communicating something to the viewer effectively.

Attitude

Once you have a selection of possible graphic designers, arrange to meet them. Discuss your ideas and take note of the designers 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 sounds obvious, but if your concepts are vague you will want someone motivated and enthusiastic in sharing ideas.

They shouldnt however, be over-enthusiastic and create something which doesnt fit your specification.

Good graphic designers will tell you straight away if they cannot create the product which you require. They should be honest enough to admit that their skills in website design, InDesign or photography are not adequate.

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

These may be on their website, in their portfolio, or you could ask for them and follow them up with a quick phone call. Good graphic designers in Kent will provide references from happy customers, and ideally these should be from projects similar to your own.