Finding a Graphic Design Contractor
Graphic Design: what is it?
Graphic design allows designers to capture your thoughts and turn them into a visual representation. A good graphic design can communicate your ideas to the audience and help you achieve your business goals.
It is important to have graphic design since it will help your business to:
- Appear more professional
- Get more customers and clients
- Make more sales
Types of Graphic Design services
There are many types of graphic design services that you can get from a contractor. Here are some of the most popular services:
Web design
This type of graphic design is used to create websites. A web designer will work with you to create a website that reflects your brand and meets your needs.
Logo design
A logo is a visual representation of your brand. It is important to have a well-designed logo that represents your business in a positive light.
Print design
This type of graphic design is used for print media, such as business cards, flyers, and brochures.
Digital design
This type of graphic design is used for digital media, such as social media posts and banner ads.
Things to consider before hiring a graphic design contractor
Some companies already have an in-house graphic designer, but if you don’t have one, you will need to look for a freelancer you can work with. So, here are some factors to consider before hiring a designer.
Capabilities of the graphic designer
A graphic designer is responsible for creating visual representations of your ideas. They should be able to understand your vision and turn it into a reality or turn it into designs that will benefit the business.
BUT, a graphic designer isn’t a web developer, not even a creative director, in most cases. Generally speaking, graphic designers can give professional creative input. Still, they are not responsible for directing every part that comes in and out of the company’s brand identity or creative strategy — that should come from you, the owner.
Designers have their own specializations, so you must think of what you really need for your business.
Deciding what you need
Knowing what you need will allow you to find the right designer for your project. Do you need a logo, a banner ad, or graphics for a social media post? Do you need someone to design your website or help you with your branding?
The colors, patterns, and fonts also play a huge role in the design. Be clear about what you need before you start looking for a contractor.
Type of visual you need
The type of visual you need will also dictate what type of graphic designer you will need. Does your business require animations or videos? Do you need an infographics designer?
Your target audience
Your target audience is also a vital factor to consider. The designs must be able to capture the attention of your target market and communicate the message you want to send across.
If you’re targeting children, then using bright colors is a must. The design should also be joyful, fun, and attract kids’ attention. It is a different story for the elderly; you need to use designs that are easy to understand and not too complicated.
Where can you find a designer
Six degrees of separation
Friends and friends of friends is a scheme that has worked for years. You probably know someone that is good at design or someone that knows someone who is. If this is the case, it would be easier to post an ad on social networks or ask for referrals.
Freelance sites
There are many websites that offer graphic design services, but it can be hard to find the right one. You will need to do your research and look for reviews before you decide on a contractor.
Some of the most popular websites where you can find designers are:
Usually, there’s high competition on these sites, and you might get tons of unqualified applicants. So, be patient when looking through the portfolios and take your time to find the right fit.
Portfolios
Unlike freelance sites, portfolio websites also exist. These websites house the projects and works of a particular graphic designer. Normally, there are no forms where you can send formal job offerings, so you’ll have to contact the designer personally.
The downside with portfolios is that you won’t have financial protection, unlike with freelance websites. You will also have to create and sign all the agreements yourself and ensure that they’re done properly.
Steps in hiring your first graphic design contractor
Talk to them
The first step to hiring a graphic design contractor would be to contact them and have an initial consultation. This is to know more about their work process, what they can do for you, and how much they would charge.
During the consultation, it’s important that you’re clear about your vision and what you expect from them. You should also ask for a portfolio of their previous works so you can have an idea of their design style.
Check their availability
The second step is to check their availability. You need to make sure that they would be able to commit to your project and see it through until the end.
You should also inquire about their work schedule and if they’re available during weekends or holidays. This is to avoid any conflicts in the future.
Get a quote
The third step is to get a quote from the contractor. This will give you an idea of how much the project would cost and if it’s within your budget. You should also ask for a breakdown of the quote so you can see where your money is going. Once you’re satisfied with the quote, you can proceed to the next step.
Once you get the quote, you need to check the market rate and compare it with the quote you received. This is to make sure that you’re not being overcharged. You would also need to consider the location where your chosen graphic designer is.
For example, a designer from San Francisco might charge higher than someone from a small town.
Create a brief
After the consultation, it’s time to create a brief. This document will serve as your guide and will contain all the instructions for the project. It should also include the timeline, budget, and other important details.
Be sure to be clear and concise when writing the brief to avoid any miscommunication. You can also ask for help from the contractor in creating the document.
Here is a list of important stuff to include in a brief:
- Project schedule, including all relevant deadlines
- The number of edits/revisions included in the cost of the project
- Pricing conditions and structure
- Rights (most corporate companies use a work-for-hire agreement, which means that you own the rights to work)
- Any confidentiality agreements or NDAs
Picking a Graphic Designer: a key factor to your success
In every business out there, it is important that the people you pick to work with can deliver what is expected of them. This could not be truer when finding the right graphic designer for your business. A great design can make or break a company, which is why it is essential that you take the time to find someone who meets your needs and expectations.
However, it isn’t only about how good they are, you would also need to consider whether they believe in your mission and they’re excellent to work with. After all, you would be working with them closely to ensure the success of your project.
Ready to work with a graphic design contractor? Check out Sketchy Digital today to see if one of their graphic designers fits your needs.
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