Oftentimes, you may believe that a graphic designer can easily understand what you are saying about a specific design. If you’ve been working with them for years, then this would likely be the case. However, if working with any new graphic designer, chances are what they interpret from your words will be completely different from what you have in mind. That’s because design is a personal thing, and what they think looks good versus what you think looks good can vary quite immensely.
As such, when working with any graphic designer, how does one communicate in such a way that what is in mind is conveyed clearly and understandably? Here’s how:
1. BE SPECIFIC WITH WORDS
When describing anything, be specific. Don’t simply say words like “simple” or “rustic.” These words are generic, and there are so many designs that fit the description. Instead, say something like “add white space between this text” and “use bold, black fonts for the headlines.” These longer statements are much more specific, allowing the graphic designer to understand better what exactly it is you have in mind.
2. STAY VERSATILE AND FLEXIBLE
You’ll more than likely already have a vision in mind of what the design should be like. However, understand that you shouldn’t be hell-bent on bringing that vision to life. Remember, a designer is like an artist. They have the skills to create something beautiful, and you hired them for the work they have done! Sometimes, you should allow them to work based on the requirements you’ve set, giving them the creative freedom they need to work well. In fact, you might like what they’ve come up with more!
3. SHOW SOME VISUAL EXAMPLES
One of the best ways you can help a graphic designer in their attempt to bring your vision to life is to give them visual examples. Pictures are worth a thousand words, and when they get to see the images you share with them, they get a much better idea of what it is you want!
4. BE CONSTRUCTIVE WITH YOUR LANGUAGE
You may not realise this, but saying “this does not look nice” isn’t constructive for the graphic designer. Sure, it means that the design was bad, but it can also sound like a personal attack. Plus, saying “this does not look nice” doesn’t help them in any way to understand what it is you want. As such, you need to be constructive with your language. Say things like “I prefer if this were a little bigger” or “how about moving this picture here.” Not only are they constructive, but they sound a lot kinder.
CONCLUSION
Whenever you communicate with your graphic designer, remember what we shared in this article. Try and apply as many of them as possible, as they will help increase your ability to properly communicate what’s in your mind to the graphic designer. As a result, your graphic designer will far more easily be able to come up with designs that fit your vision, ensuring that you are happy and proud with the designs you get to work with! Remember, their success is your success, and by working closely together, success will be waiting just right around the corner!
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