5 Steps for Collaborating with a Graphic Designer for the First Time
Preparing yourself to work with a graphic designer
Investing in a graphic designer to create your branding is a big step and one that’s well worth the time, money, and effort if you’re wanting to create a brand that’s truly sensational. If you’ve never worked with a graphic designer before, you may be curious or even a bit apprehensive about the process.
Your graphic designer isn’t going to expect you to be a design expert — so don’t worry about learning color theory or digital marketing principles. Your designer will guide you through every step of the creative process and help you make the best decisions for your brand and your audience.
However, there are a few things you can do to make sure you’re prepared to make the most out of your work together.
Step 1: Define your project scope
Your project scope sets the boundaries of the project so that both you and your designer understand the expectations and your respective responsibilities. Without establishing a clear scope, it’s difficult to know when the project is “done” or what tasks should or shouldn’t be included in the work.
Your project scope would determine whether you want to hire a graphic designer for a large project like a website overhaul, or if you’re just looking for someone to design your logo. Because different designers specialize in different things, defining your project scope before searching for a designer will ensure you find one who is a great match.
If you’re not 100% sure what your project scope will include, it can be helpful to work with a one-stop shop design house that brings together several different creatives, so you can get all your branding needs met in a single place.
Step 2: Think about your ideal project outcomes.
What do you want to get out of working with a graphic designer? Define what “success” looks like for your business, so you and your designer can be clear about your expectations.
Try setting both qualitative and quantitative goals — meaning, goals that you can measure with feelings and numbers. An example of a qualitative goal might be to walk away with a website that truly feels like it reflects your authenticity as a brand. A quantitative goal, on the other hand, may be to see your conversion rate increase.
Step 3: Determine your ideal timeline.
Depending on the scope of your project, the timeline you’re hoping may have to shift. Here at Sereth Degisn, we can work with you to find a timeline that is approachable and intentional to create something sensational.
It’s best practice to check-in regularly with your designer via email or a zoom call to talk about the project, review content, and collaborate during the design process.
Step 4: Have written assets prepared.
When possible, it’s helpful to have your written assets (your website copy, your brand story, your tagline, etc.) prepared before working with a graphic designer, as these elements can set the tone for the rest of your design.
However, if you don’t have them nailed down just yet, don’t worry! You and your designer can always work through this together when working on your overall brand strategy.
Many design companies, including Sereth Design, even offer copywriting services. If you’re looking for more in-depth messaging strategy, your designer can refer you to a trusted collaborator.
Step 5: Start gathering examples you like from other brands.
Gather visual examples of branding to show your designer what you’re looking for — this is much easier than trying to describe it in words. A great tool for this is Pinterest, as it makes it simple to create a vision board and share it with your designer.
As you hunt for branding inspiration, take note of the difference between branding you simply like or dislike and branding you know your clients will connect with. It’s far more important to create a visual identity that resonates with your audience than it is to follow all the latest design trends.
More tips for working with a graphic designer
Once you’re ready to hire a graphic designer, how can you ensure that your work together is a success? Here are a few tips on how to work with your graphic designer effectively.
Give clear feedback
Giving your designer clear, honest feedback is crucial. Your designer wants to create something that you absolutely love, so they’ll be open to hearing your thoughts!
When giving feedback, be specific. What particular aspect of the design isn’t resonating with you? The clearer you are, the more likely it is your designer will be able to find a way to course correct.
If you’re feeling stuck, try sharing the feeling you want to evoke or the element of your brand you want to highlight. By doing this, as opposed to requesting a specific design change (i.e., turn this button from blue to red), you’ll give your designer the chance to use their expertise to evoke emotion and meaning in a way that flows with the rest of your design.
Communicate regularly about expectations and intended outcomes
Throughout your project, regularly meet or communicate with your designer. Even if you’ve been diligent about setting goals and estimating a timeline, things often shift once you dive into the work.
Work with your designer to find a means of communicating that works best for you! The key here is to be transparent, honest, and KIND so that both parties are always aware of changes in expectations.
Stay open-minded and trust in your designer’s expertise
Your designer has spent years refining their skillset through training and experience. That’s why it’d be wise to stay open-minded rather than being rigid about what you have in mind for your branding. Allow your designer to do what they do best: be creative and come up with new ideas!
A graphic designer is a professional who is here to help your business stand out from the crowd and create something truly sensational — if you don’t give them the space to do that, they can’t make magic for you. The best way to make this space is to ensure you’re providing overall direction (letting your designer know the emotions and values you’re hoping to evoke in your branding) without controlling exactly how you get there (allowing them to make the design decisions).
Enjoy the process
Working with a graphic designer for the first time is an exciting step forward for your business and an investment in your future. If you’re ready to take this step, now is the time to define your project scope, set goals, and start gathering visual ideas before you begin working with a graphic designer. Having a clear outcome in mind makes it easier for you both to hit the ground running.
Looking for design help?
If your project scope ends up including “a little bit of everything”, Sereth Design is a one-stop shop that can help you create a comprehensive, strategic brand identity: from visuals to your website, to your brand copy. Our goal is to design a brand that connects you to your people. Inquire here to get your project underway.