One of the main advantages of becoming a freelance graphic designer is the possibility to evolve towards different future jobs. Working as a freelance graphic designer also allows you to conduct your assignments at your own pace. However, to become one, it is essential to follow well-defined steps. To help you on your way to becoming a freelance graphic designer, here is a list of the most important things to do.
Know the essential qualities to become a freelance graphic designer
Before you embark on various steps to become a freelance graphic designer, you must have certain fundamental qualities.
Communication
A freelance graphic designer must be able to easily communicate a client's story, brand and ideas. Their communication skills also allow them to present, charm and negotiate. However, he must remain professional in delicate situations and be clear with his clients about the briefs.
Curiosity
To evolve in your profession and to carry out your activity successfully, you must also be curious and like art. You should also be interested in the world around you. A freelance graphic designer must also have a tendency to learn and know new things. This allows him to explore everything he sees in great detail and in a comprehensive view.
Passion and dynamism
You won't find yourself in a creative industry if you're not passionate about what you do. Indeed, even with passion and talent, graphic design is above all a labor of love. It inevitably involves:
- Odd hours;
- Big changes;
- Irregular briefs;
- Delicate workloads.
You need to use your passion to keep going when you are exhausted and this can also bring you improvements. In addition, you will need to be dynamic and learn to balance projects and manage your time.
The opening
As a graphic designer, you are an artist, you must be open-minded and willing to try new things from time to time. In fact, you have to be open enough to receive advice from unexpected sources. Great freelance graphic designers often share their personal knowledge in their work. So there's no fear in exposing yourself by being outspoken.
The ability to accept criticism
Dealing with criticism is perhaps the most difficult thing for all graphic design freelancers. Nevertheless, you need to be good at taking direction and improving your work. To do this, the ideal way is to rely on communication. This is an evolutionary process that often produces very positive results.
Take a graphic design course
There are many ways to become a freelance graphic designer. Generally, qualifications include the following:
- Specialized Education and/or Training;
- Computer skills;
- Completed sample portfolio.
You will need to earn a bachelor's degree in a related field such as graphic design or fine arts. If your degree is in a different field, then additional technical training in graphic design is required. This is usually required for hiring by companies or agencies. In addition, computer skills are imperative to be able to master the use of graphic design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign.
Create your personal brand
To create your personal brand, start by understanding and articulating who you are and what you offer. Then, determine what makes you unique. This all plays a role in your personal brand.
The latter represents how you promote yourself and your services. Generally, clients associate freelance graphic designers with :
- Their branding;
- Their work style;
- Their various products.
Creating your personal brand is essential although you can add your skills and preferences later. It is recommended that you start by designing your logo, website and marketing materials.
In addition, there is also a design portfolio. Although a stand-alone resume is useful, it is the design portfolio that you will need to showcase your abilities. It will allow you to present your experience and style. Furthermore, it can lead you to:
- A diploma;
- Online courses;
- Corporate experience;
- Independent work.
If you don't have enough examples, create new ones while maintaining your original branding and purpose.
Establish an online presence
This is a very important step in becoming a freelance graphic designer. One of the best ways to do this is to use a website optimized for SEO. This can be your online portfolio and have stories written with each sample. It can also be a great place to share a bio, blog and client testimonials. Other beneficial ways to increase your online presence include:
- LinkedIn Professional Network;
- Specialized social platforms like Dribble.
On the other hand, you can use social media platform accounts to share and interfere with other graphic designers.
Improve your understanding of the business side
Becoming a freelance graphic designer requires more than creativity and connections. You'll also need to be well-versed in the business side of things, including sales and accounting techniques. For marketing and sales, you'll need to learn how to present yourself to your clients.
In addition, you will need to develop proposal and invoice templates to modify for each client and project. At this stage, feel free to define your pricing. Perhaps one of the most complex parts will be setting your prices. It's a good idea to start by researching how other freelance designers charge. Also, don't forget to find out about :
- Their experiences;
- Their training;
- Their portfolios.
Then check out independent marketing platforms like Fiverr to get an idea of customer reviews. Also, it is possible to offer your clients discounted rates for certain projects. On the other hand, your workload will sometimes vary and you'll need to plan ways to make the most of it. The trick here is to intelligently set up a budget for downtime.
Getting to know each other
Even with experience in graphic design, it will take time to build a client list. The goal is toprovide regular and ongoing freelance graphic design services. Make contact with small business owners who are just starting out. Don't hesitate to offer them free website design or branding help. Also offer them a discounted rate in exchange for analysis and recommendation.
Let your contacts on LinkedIn and other social media platforms know that you are now independent. You can also ask them to share the news on their various networks. Finally, identify brands, companies or agencies that produce their own graphic designs or work for others. However, make sure that their style is similar to yours.
Choosing your legal status
Choosing the right legal structure is essential to running a freelance graphic design business. As a beginner, it is essential to understand the different options available to you. The legal structure of your business determines :
- Your tax rates and tax system;
- Your management and paperwork requirements;
- Your fundraising capabilities.
Also, note that sole proprietorships and partnerships are relatively easy to start.
Some practical tips for finding your first customers
It is not always easy to find your first clients as a freelance graphic designer. Here are some tips that will help you do just that.
Clearly present your value
Your value is what differentiates you from the competition. By communicating it clearly, it will be easier for you to gain more customers. To know your real value, you must start by asking yourself questions about your qualities and skills, but also about your objectives.
Get a recommendation
If you have satisfied customers, ask them for referrals or recommendations. Let them know that you are always open to talking to new clients and appreciate their input. Depending on the services you offer, you may also want to establish a formal referral or referral program. Initially, most customers will not want to refer you to their potential competitors. However, some companies have working partnerships and all kinds of suppliers who can become your future customers.
Make sure your portfolio is in good condition
Your graphic design portfolio is one of the most valuable assets you have to gain new clients. So, you need to make sure you showcase your best work and take the time to explain each project.
Talk about your role in the project, your problems and how you solved them. Share your portfolio and add new projects to it regularly. The time you spend on your portfolio will pay dividends in the long run. It also builds trust with your potential clients.
Becoming a freelance graphic designer: in summary
In short, to become a freelance graphic designer, you need to have the skills in visual and digital design. You must also have the desire to be your own boss and accept the responsibilities that come with it. This includes overseeing the business side of your operation. Next, you'll need a personal brand and an exceptional design portfolio. Finally, you need to improve your online presence.
