So, you’re about to work with a designer—exciting! You’ve got a vision, they’ve got the skills, and together, you’re about to make some magic. But let’s be honest, working with a designer isn’t always as simple as “make it look nice.”
If you want a dream collaboration (and not a design nightmare), there are a few things you should know. Consider this your cheat sheet—your guide to getting the absolute best out of your designer, without losing your mind (or theirs).
1. Know What You Want (Or at Least What You Don’t Want)
Designers aren’t mind-readers (though sometimes it feels like they should be). Before you dive in, get clear on your goals. What’s the vibe? The feeling? The message? Even if you don’t know exactly what you want, knowing what you don’t want is a good start.
📌 Tip: Moodboards, Pinterest inspo, or even a simple “I hate Comic Sans” helps steer the ship in the right direction.
2. Be Open to New Ideas
You’ve hired a designer for a reason—because they’re the expert in making things look good (and work even better). So be open. Be curious. Let them surprise you. The best designs often come from a mix of your vision and their creativity.
🎨 Think of it like this: You wouldn’t tell a chef exactly how to cook your meal—you’d trust them to work their magic with the ingredients you give them.
3. Give Specific Feedback (No, “Make it Pop” Doesn’t Count)
Designers LOVE feedback—but only if it’s helpful. Saying “I don’t like it” is as useful as a chocolate teapot. Instead, say why. Is the colour too bold? The font too modern? Does it not feel like you?
📌 Helpful feedback sounds like:
✅ “I’d love a softer colour palette—it feels a bit too corporate right now.”
✅ “The font is great, but could we try something a little bolder?”
✅ “This is close, but I want it to feel more playful—any ideas?”
4. Patience, Darling. Good Design Takes Time
Yes, we live in a world of instant everything, but great design isn’t a rush job. It’s a process—one that involves thinking, tweaking, refining, and maybe even a little staring-at-the-screen-questioning-everything-before-a-breakthrough-happens.
⏳ Remember: If you want something done well, give it time.
5. Respect Their Expertise (They Went to Uni for This)
You’re hiring a designer because they know what they’re doing. Trust them. Yes, you have a vision, but a designer knows how to bring it to life in the best way possible. They’re problem-solvers, brand-builders, and visual magicians—not just someone who moves things around in Photoshop.
✨ Trust the process. Trust the professional.
6. Communication is Everything (No Ghosting, Please)
Want a smooth project? Talk. Often. Ghosting your designer for two weeks and then expecting an overnight revision isn’t the move. Stay connected. Answer emails. Ask questions. Keep things flowing.
📌 Quick tip: If you’re busy (we get it, life happens), set a regular check-in to keep things on track.
7. Be Realistic About Deadlines
“I need this done by tomorrow.” 😬 No, you don’t.
Good design takes time. Last-minute changes, extra tweaks, and back-and-forths all add up. If you have a tightdeadline, be upfront from the start. But if you really want quality work, give your designer the time they need to do it properly.
8. Set a Clear Process (Before the Chaos Begins)
Who’s responsible for what? How many rounds of revisions are included? When are payments due? Sorting out expectations early prevents headaches later.
📌 Pro tip: Most designers have their own process—ask them how they work best and set clear boundaries.
9. Good Design is an Investment—Don’t Scrimp
Canva is great for a DIY social post, but when it comes to real branding, packaging, websites, or logos—invest in a pro. Good design isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s what makes your brand memorable.
💡 Remember: Cheap design often leads to expensive fixes later. Do it right the first time.
10. Show Some Love!
Designers pour their heart into their work. A simple “This looks amazing—thank you!” can go a long way. When you appreciate your designer, they’ll go the extra mile for you. And hey, if you really love the work, tell your friends. Referrals are gold in the creative world.
Final Thoughts: It’s a Partnership, Not a Transaction
Working with a designer isn’t just about getting a logo or a website—it’s about collaboration. When both sides bring trust, communication, and creativity to the table, the results can be incredible.
So whether you’re working with a designer for the first time or the tenth—remember, you’re on the same team.
Now, go forth and create something brilliant together! 🎨✨
