When thinking about hiring a designer to work with on your branding, here are things to know before hiring a designer. This task can seem becoming overwhelming if you let it, as there are many to choose from. As a designer myself, I have compiled a list of qualities I value for a successful client-business relationship, and included some questions you can ask to determine if they are the right fit for you.

Here’s what we’ll discuss:

• The advantages of hiring a designer
• What to consider when selecting one
• Questions to ask (and that they should ask you)

The Benefits Of Hiring A Designer

There are many reasons to hire a brand specialist to help build a successful brand.

When hiring a designer, consider time and professionalism. Small business owners often try to do the work themselves, but this often leads to more time spent and less time to focus on what they are best at.

Another option is to hire a designer, as they are knowledgeable in their field. As a designer myself, I have spent years perfecting my skills and knowledge of design and marketing. We do not discount the fact that you also have a creative eye. However, there are certain rules and aspects of design that you may not be familiar with. We, as designers, consider this as we work with you. A good designer will be able to understand exactly what you need to take your business to the next level and break the barriers holding you back. They will then implement this into beautiful designs that work.

A designer can help create a brand that resonates and speaks to your audience. Brand touchpoints should match and reflect the brand’s tone. A branding designer can help answer questions and bring out the brand’s unique qualities, showcasing its brilliance.

So how do you find the right designer?

Are you looking for the right designer? You can go to any designer, but do they have the right style for your brand? Have they worked with people in your industry and gained an understanding of it? Communication is key: do you feel like you can express yourself clearly to them? Additionally, how experienced are they? Are they capable of building a website if that’s what you need?

Questions you should ask your potential designer

The majority of designers will have questions on their website, but this may not always be the case, or you may not have found them. Here is a list of questions to ask them before signing anything, during your free call with them.

• How long have you been in business?
• What areas/industries do you specialise in?
• What is your dream client to work with and which ones do you avoid?
• Why do your clients pick you over the competition?
• Do you have any case studies or a portfolio I can look at?
• What is the current turnaround for a project like mine?
• Do you provide a contract for the work being carried out?
• What are your payment terms and do you offer payment plans?
• Do you have any staff or do you hire work out to freelancers?
• What will happen if you / or I (the client) decide I want to cancel the work before completion?
• How many revisions do you allow on a project like this? Can I get extra?
• Who owns the rights for work carried out?
• What is included in the package I’ve picked?
• Do you offer maintenance or retainer work for the site you design?
• What file types / deliverables will I get?
• Will I receive any brand guidelines / brand strategy presentations?

Designers will also assess their clients to ensure they are a good fit. This may seem intimidating, but it is beneficial. That way you both know if you’re the right fit to take this project all the way.

Questions a designer should ask you

When you approach a designer, they should ask you questions too. They’ll do this in order to gain an understanding of your branding needs; your why, your personal preferences and who your ideal client is. These questions usually consist of:

• What is your budget?
• What is your timeframe for this project?
• Have you ever worked with a designer before?
• Do you already have a colour palette in mind?
• Who makes the decisions on this project?
• How did you hear about us?
• What are you hoping to convey about this project?
• Do you use Pinterest / create mood boards?
• What are your goals for the project?
• Can you show me examples of designs you like?

Hiring a designer can be a great way to take your business to the next level. Consider their experience, professionalism, and communication skills when selecting one. Ask them questions about their portfolio, turnaround time, payment terms, and more. Designers will also assess their clients to ensure they are a good fit.

Want to have a chat with us about your project? Just click the link here and let’s get that call booked in!