Always ask for references. Graphic design is a creative business, and the product has to be tailored to each client individually. Because of this, much of the process involves working closely with the client to produce a design that satisfies the client’s objectives. If a designer doesn’t have a solid list of clients pleased with his or her work, why would you think you’re likely to get a different result?

Along these same lines, be sure to ask about the designer’s revision process. Because of the nature of graphic design, a given design may have to be altered several times before it’s finalized. You shouldn’t work with any designer who presents an attitude that whatever he or she produces the first time around is what you’re stuck with. Design is a collaborative process between the designer and the client, and you as the client should be satisfied with the end result.

Another valuable request to make before you hire is to see some samples of the designer’s work. The best way to know what a given designer can do for you is to look at what he or she has done for other clients in the past. Physical copies of print projects will rarely be available because they are delivered to their respective clients in the end, but a good designer should be able to point you to his or her website or at the very least provide a few electronic files for your perusal.

Finally, you’ll want to inquire about pricing. As tempting as it may be, don’t forget the old maxim that you get what you pay for, so cheaper isn’t always better. That said, a designer should be able to give you a fairly solid estimate for most projects and should be open about his or her hourly rates. If you don’t get an estimate at the outset, you are subjecting yourself to the designer’s whims once the project is finished.

Building a brand from the ground up is one of the most daunting tasks a business owner faces. The end goal is to increase your sales, but in order to accomplish this, your brand must be recognizable and memorable and reflect the identity of your company. With so much at stake, choosing the right agency to help you create a lasting and effective brand is critical.

Knightling can help you get started building your brand with a custom corporate logo designed to express your business’s mission and style. Our process leaves no stone unturned as we perform in-depth interviews prior to even drawing the first sketch. Our goal is to transfer your vision for your business onto physical media.

Once you have a logo, Knightling can greatly extend your brand’s reach with websites, business cards, postcards, brochures, newspaper advertisements, vehicle wraps, e-mail newsletters and more. Solicit our ideas, and we will provide you with  concepts tailored to your business. Give us your ideas, and we will make them tangible for you. Knightling’s design creativity and versatility are at your disposal to greatly enhance your marketing efforts.