4 Things Your Designer Should be Asking You
There are so many posts out there that go into detail about different questions that you should be asking your designer before you hire them. And although, that is a great topic and I do plan on covering that in the future today I want to touch on things 4 things your designer should be asking YOU!
It’s so important that your designer is not just rolling through the motions of creating pretty things, but that they are actually taking the time and the interest to know about you and your business and help you to build a brand that is consistent with what you need. When I begin a project with someone I do not expect them to know all of these answers right away, but I do expect that during our process that we work together to figure it out.
There are so many more questions that I believe should be asked, but these are just narrowed down to a handful of ones that really should be covered when you work with a designer.
What are the deliverable you need
Do you need just a logo? Do you need marketing materials or a website? Your designer should be asking you what exactly you need before anything is set in stone, so you both have an understanding right from the beginning. The designer should be making sure that you are not needing something that they are unable to provide you. I am not too familiar with setting up an e-commerce site, and at this time I would not be comfortable taking on a job that requires one. I would be doing a huge disservice to them and my business by over promising something I could not accomplish properly.
Their packages should be detailed so you understand what you will (or will not) be given, so that there is no confusion. If I start talking with a potential customer and I am getting the impression that they need more, or something a bit different – or if they straight out ask – I create a custom package for them and list it all out so that we are both on the same page.
What is your timeline
This should be one of the first pieces of information that they should be requesting from you. If you are needing something right away and it’s not being discussed it’s a serious red flag!
They need to be making sure that you two are on the same page right from the beginning. You may be thinking that things will be started in the near future, where they may not be able to get it even started for another month or two. I lay out dates that I need information from each of my customers and when I will begin each part of the project. Deadlines for information and for final projects are so important. It lays out expectations and ensures that things will be done in a timely manner.
What do you want people to say
Your brand is so much more than just your logo. It is your mission, your products, your ideal client, your intention and personality. It’s the perception that people have of your product or services. Or quoting Ze Frank, it’s the “emotional aftertaste” that comes after an experience with a product, service or company.
Who is your ideal client
Knowing and understanding who your ideal client is instrumental with the success of your business. Not only must you understand them, but where you can find them. And then understand how you can serve them. Depending on the type of industry you are in, this can be quite the challenge unless you are somewhat experienced with your business. This is less about you, and more about your ideal client.
Your ideal client determines so much about your strategy so start by creating your profile for them. In order to be attract your ideal client, you must first understand them. Here are some questions to consider – be as detailed as possible.
- What is their gender and age range?
- What is their occupation?
- What is their income level?
- What are their interests?
- Do they have kids and what is their age?
- What magazines or blogs do they read?
- What do they worry about?
- What need or want can you solve for them?
- What do they do in their free time?
- What brands do they like to wear?
- What social media outlets do they utilize?
There are more questions that I believe are important that your designer should be asking you, but these are my top 4. Is there a question that you think should be included on this list – I’d love to hear what it is! If you have questions or are interested in learning more about working together let’s chat!
