How To Be The Perfect Client

Just like with any relationship, there comes a certain social ettiquite that allows friendships to thrive, such as being a good listener, kindness, generosity, keeping in touch with people you care about etc.  If a friendship fails to have a level of respect and consideration then it just won't work out.

Most people understand these unspoken rules of friendship, but if you've never worked with a graphic designer before (or even if you have) then it's good to know what designers find important so you can be the best client ever and give your project the best chance of success.

So I’ll let you in on a little secret that will get the most out of your graphic designer and keep everyone happy...

Design Etiquette - 5 tips to get the most out of your designer

Trust Your Designer

If your designer is anything like me, then they love to collaborate on projects. I’m always ready and willing to hear opinions and ideas. I will however be reluctant to make changes or tweaks that won’t work regardless of how convincing you might be.

If you want the best outcome for your project, then honesty and professional advice will be invaluable.  Trust your designer. Their experience and knowledge is priceless. After all, that’s what you’re paying them for.

The Bigger Picture

Keep your sights on the bigger picture and don’t sweat the small stuff. Designers have a keen eye for detail but they also know when to stop designing. Sometimes moving things unnecessarily around upsets the balance of the rest of the layout. Stick to the main purpose of the project. The desired outcome and the small things will soon be forgotten about when launch date comes. The role of a designer is not just to design something that looks good, but to get your project off the ground so you can move onto the next thing.

Don't Keep Changing Your Mind

Get clarity before the project starts even if it takes longer than you anticipated. Planning is such an important part of a project and without it, time and money is wasted and patience can turn into frustration. A good designer will keep you on track with the initial design brief because it’s in your best interest to stay on track. Changing the goal post before a project is finished can lead to confusion and mixed messages.

Pay Your Designer On Time

Paying your designer on time is a respectful transaction that tells the designer you’re  committed to the project and you appreciate their work. Simple for some but if a designer has to spend time chasing up invoices it isn’t much of an incentive to go the extra mile or get jobs done quickly.

Maintain Momentum

Putting a project on hold (unless it’s completely necessary) by not getting back to the designer in a timely manner, means the project loses it’s momentum and other projects will be put ahead of yours. If a designer is getting back to you quickly, take that momentum and run with it. The alternative may be a lack of enthusiasm for your project and it will take longer to build up the momentum again and finish the job.