Want some quick and easy tips on how to become a better designer? We’ve got them! And the best part is you can start applying them to your business straight away.
1. Have a design strategy
There’s no doubt about it; learning how to become a better designer starts with planning. Your client is everything; and you need to have a clear design strategy in place, that revolves around satisfying the needs of the people who pay your invoices.
Ask yourself the following questions when you’re creating your strategy:
Do you understand the needs of your clients?
Have you identified a problem that needs solving?
Have you come up with a creative and innovative solution?
2: Stop, look, and listen
One of the main things to keep in mind is to listen to what your clients have to say. You may be the expert and sure, you probably know better, but there may be important things you miss if you don’t take the time to listen.
3. Know your craft
Part of learning how to become a better designer is really knowing your stuff. When you meet with a client, you’ll be expected to answer questions and to know what you’re talking about.
But of course, knowing your game doesn’t mean you should be talking to your client with confusing terminology. Be clear, be concise and relay the information in a way that that your client understands.
4. Be honest
There’s nothing worse than telling your client you can accomplish something when you know that you can’t. The rule here is simple; don’t make promises you can’t keep and never close a deal if you cannot fulfil your client’s needs. It’s ok to turn a client away. If you won’t be able to deliver, it’s ok to say no.
5: Design with passion
Remind yourself how much you design and you’ll be one step closer to understanding how to become a better designer. Even when times are tough, never settle for mediocre designs and always deliver deigns that you’re proud of. Reignite your passion every day.
6. Never stop learning
We all like to believe we know everything, but there is always something new to learn. And the more you learn, the better designer you’ll be. Even when you’re super busy, make some time to keep up with the trends, read articles and blog posts and dive in to some training.
7. Value your time
Your time is invaluable, so it’s important you make yours count. When you manage your time properly, you can better prioritise your workload to become more efficient, and of course, take on more work!
8. Inspire yourself
Being a designer can sometimes be lonely and isolating. You may spend hours (or days!) designing on your computer, and you might end up feeling discouraged if your client doesn’t like your designs. Take a walk and find inspiration in the beauty around you. Find inspirational quotes and live by them. Do not be discouraged by setbacks – everyone gets them!
So there you have them – quick and easy tips that you can apply to your design career today. Need one to one help and advice?
