How to work with a graphic designer: 6 insider tips.

By Slavica Zlatar-Banika

1. Check out their portfolio.

This one is a biggie. The portfolio will reveal the designer’s style and approach to design.

The work should speak for itself. Make sure it aligns with your thinking.

Does their style match what you’re after? It’s like any other relationship — you want a good match!

2. Talk budget + timelines.

Chat about the budget and timelines from the get-go with your graphic designer.

Put all the cards on the table. Be transparent. This will help you dodge any awkward money talks later.

Everyone needs to be cool with the game plan. No one wants surprises down the design road.

Let the designer know what you’re thinking, but be sure to entertain their suggestions.

Designers can help guide you to get results on a budget.

3. Let them in. Don’t hold back.

Share the nitty-gritty of your daily business. Tell the designer about any design — or business — pain points you’re experiencing.

What does your current creative process look like — with in-house designers, independent creatives or agencies?

This can help your designer figure out where they can pitch in.

4. Status quo: Show and tell.

Don’t be shy. Show your designer the current state of your brand.

Where are you now? Give the designer a good look at your brand’s recent creative output.

It’s like an audit that spots brand hiccups and areas where things could be smoother.

5. Use a creative brief. And visuals.

The creative brief is important, but hang on…

I have seen many creatives push this back on the client. That is a no-no.

A creative brief is like the map to a treasure, but it’s a two-way street. The more both sides bring to the table, the closer we get to creative gold.

And don’t forget — share examples of what you’re thinking. Share how you envision your future brand. It’s teamwork. Listen to your designer, but let them know your preferences too.

Yes, many clients have a very clear idea of their goals — others need more guidance. And sometimes, what a client thinks they need from a design perspective — may not be it. The designer should be a valued confidante and help identify a solid strategy.

Don’t skip this part of the process! This work upfront saves time later.

It shouldn’t be a long, drawn-out process, though. Remember, success loves speed!

6. Let go!

Giving a graphic designer some creative breathing room can unlock unexpected magic.

Think of it like hiring a chef — you let them whip up the dish without hovering over the kitchen. It’s a recipe for design success!

Of course, every good designer listens to their client early on and along the way.

You are a team that, together, can create some powerful solutions.

Good designers understand that most clients love to be part of the design process.

Conclusion.

Think of teaming up with a graphic designer like getting a cool business buddy.

You checked out their work and had an honest chat about money and timing — no secrets.

Then, you let them in on your biz secrets and spill the beans on challenges and dreams. Together, you cooked up a creative plan and nailed down a smart strategy.

Your designer is more than a creative brain — they’re your problem-solving partner.

Congratulations. You may have just discovered your business’s ultimate — secret weapon.