Choosing a designer is not just finding someone who will "make it look nice." It's finding a partner who understands your business and helps achieve your goals. Here's what to look for.
Portfolio
The first thing to look at is their work. But not just "like/don't like":
- Diversity: Can the designer work in different styles?
- Relevance: Are there projects similar to yours?
- Depth: Do they only show pictures or explain tasks and solutions?
A good portfolio is not a gallery of pretty pictures, but stories of solved problems.
Work Process
Ask how the work is structured:
- How many stages?
- What happens at each stage?
- How many revision rounds are included?
- How does communication work?
If a designer can't clearly explain their process — that's a red flag.
Questions the Designer Asks You
A good designer listens first, then designs. If at the first meeting they ask:
- Who is your target audience?
- Who are the competitors?
- What are the project goals?
- What are the constraints?
— that's a good sign. If they immediately offer to "make it pretty" without diving in — the result will likely be mediocre.
Reviews and Recommendations
Ask for contacts of previous clients. Ask:
- Were deadlines met?
- How were disputes resolved?
- Would they work with them again?
Chemistry
You'll be communicating a lot. It's important to feel comfortable. If after the first call you feel unheard or misunderstood — maybe this isn't the right person for you.
Price
The cheapest option is rarely the best. But high price doesn't guarantee quality either. Look at the value ratio:
- What's included in the price?
- What results are promised?
- Are there guarantees?
Red Flags
- No portfolio or only "NDA projects"
- Promises everything at a low price
- Doesn't ask questions about the project
- Can't explain their process
- Pressures urgency
Summary
Choosing a designer is choosing a partner. Spend time finding the right person, and the result will exceed expectations.
If you want to discuss your project — contact me.
