How to Hire a Graphic Designer? 5 Steps to Finding the Someone Awesome to Avoid Chasing Unicorns

Apr 24

Woman chasing Unicorn — ***Let's face it, the design world can be a bit...mystical.***

Hovering cursors, color palettes that look like they exploded in a Skittles factory, and jargon that would make Yoda scratch his head. So, it's no wonder that hiring a **graphic designer** can feel like trying to tame a unicorn – beautiful, potentially magical, but also entirely mythical.

Fear not, weary entrepreneur! This blog post is your trusty guide to navigating the design jungle and finding a graphic designer who's not only talented but also delightfully normal (or at least speaks fluent English).

Step 1: Define Your Design Needs (Because "Everything" Isn't an Answer)

Imagine waltzing into a bakery and saying, "I need some baked goods." The baker would likely stare at you, slightly confused (and maybe a little hangry). The same goes for graphic design. Do you need a logo refresh? A killer website design? Social media graphics that won't make your grandma ask, "What are those squiggly lines supposed to be?"

Knowing your specific design needs helps attract designers who specialize in those areas. Bonus points if you can throw in some inspiration you like (think Pinterest boards, not finger-painting masterpieces from your childhood basement). GRAPHtography offers Design Briefs to help guide you through the process and think about your business on a more intimate level.

Download Design Brief

Step 2: Beware the Allure of the Super-Discounted Knight

We all love a good deal, but when it comes to graphic design, the cheapest option rarely translates to the best results. Think about it: would you trust brain surgery to the intern who just finished medical school (with questionable online credentials)? Probably not.

The same goes for design. A skilled designer brings experience, creativity, and the ability to translate your vision into something truly awesome. So, skip the basement bargain bin and invest in quality – your brand will thank you.

Step 3: Portfolio Power: Look for Past Work that Makes You Swoon (But Not Literally...Unless It's That Good)

A designer's portfolio is their war paint, their battle cry. It showcases their skills, style, and experience. So, take a good look! Do their designs resonate with your brand aesthetic? Is their work clean, professional, and visually appealing? Would you proudly display it on your website or social media?

Remember, a good portfolio isn't just about fancy graphics. It should also demonstrate the designer's ability to understand a brand's vision and translate that into a cohesive visual identity. Here at GRAPHtography, our portfolio is bursting with examples of how we've helped businesses of all sizes create stunning and effective visual identities.

View Portfolio

Step 4: Communication is Key (Because Mind Reading is Still a Sci-Fi Fantasy)

The best design projects are born from clear communication. So, don't be afraid to chat with potential designers! Ask them questions about their process, their experience, and how they would approach your project. Do they listen actively and ask clarifying questions? Do they explain design concepts in a way you understand (without resorting to technobabble)?

Finding a designer who you can communicate effectively with is crucial for a smooth and successful project. At GRAPHtography, we pride ourselves on our collaborative approach. We'll work closely with you to understand your vision and ensure the final product exceeds your expectations.

Step 5: Don't Be Afraid to Get a Few Quotes (But Don't Play Price Police)

Just like getting multiple estimates before a home renovation, it's wise to get quotes from a few different designers. This gives you a sense of the market rate and allows you to compare different skillsets and approaches. However, remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Focus on finding a designer who offers good value for your investment, someone whose skills and experience are diverse enough to align with your project needs.

Bonus Tip: Trust Your Gut (But Also Do Your Due Diligence)

There's a certain "je ne sais quoi" that happens when you find the right designer. Do they make you feel comfortable and confident? Do they seem enthusiastic about your project? While a good portfolio and clear communication are essential, sometimes a good gut feeling can't be ignored.