You may have heard horror stories of virtual workers charging high prices for subpar work or even disappearing in the middle of a project. There’s the risk of communication breaking down and affecting productivity too. These are the last things you want now that you’ve decided you need graphic design.

The problem is, how do you find the right person for the job? Hiring a graphic designer isn’t as simple as scrolling through social media and tapping on your favourites. As ironic as it may sound, the abundance of options poses a challenge for recruitment.

Tips for finding an exceptional graphic designer

Instead of fumbling about in the dark, hoping you chance upon an exceptional graphic designer, you must figure out the factors that make the best choice for you. Read on as we show you how to end up with a professional you’ll be happy to work with.

1. Know the necessary skills

It helps when you have a basic understanding of graphic design, especially about the necessary skills to create the materials you need. Through these realisations, you are sure to have a smoother screening and interview process.

It enables you to determine if you want a candidate who’s able to take photos or someone who just uses stock images. Also, it’s easier to figure out if you need a person with knowledge in Visual Studio or Adobe Illustrator in particular.

2. Set clear expectations

To attract the right type of applicants, you must provide enough background information about your project. Ensure that your creative brief includes the specific qualifications you’re looking for, the goals of your campaigns, and details about your business.

Be upfront in sharing any possible challenges and the deadlines you want met. This allows candidates to gauge whether they’re capable of meeting your expectations before they send in an application. An exceptional graphic designer wants to make an informed decision when applying.

3. Look beyond portfolios

Hiring a graphic designer according to their portfolios alone isn’t recommended, especially when you need high-quality output. It’s smarter to ask applicants about their previous work and where they take inspiration for their particular design choices.

Doing all these gives you a better idea about how they work creatively. At the same time, you know how to frame your requests based on their inspirations, should you decide to work together.

4. Consider a trial project

Raise your chances of finding a skilled graphic designer by offering a sample campaign that only takes hours to complete. It may be anything from making minor changes on a previous work or creating a simple product package.

You don’t have to make it complicated; the important thing is that it showcases their talents and abilities. Simple as it might be, remember that you still have to pay them for their time and effort.

5. Ask about their expectations

Keep things fair and ask candidates what they require from you as an employer. This applies to time-related activities like providing feedback, discussing designs, and proofing ideas. The more you understand their design process, the smoother your project will go.

In some cases, they might demand for physical items like photography equipment or documentation as well. It’s up to you how you’ll arrange for them to receive these. Some companies reimburse the expense, particularly with a graphic designer from the Philippines or any other far-off country.

6. Check industry experience

Determine if the applicant has experience within your specific industry, even if it is as a consumer. Having this knowledge reduces the learning curve related to getting them up to speed about your products and/or services.

You won’t have to explain the basics of your field, at the very least. This ensures that they have a good idea of how to connect with your target market and what to focus on design-wise.

7. Explain your brand clearly

While you know what makes your company stand out from the competition, realise that your applicants aren’t as immersed as you are. Whatever knowledge they may have of your business is surface-level at best, which is a problem when you want to engage with your audience.

That’s why it’s a good idea to check that your final candidates have a firm grasp of your brand and how you want to come across to consumers. An exceptional graphic designer is one who adjusts to your needs and that of your customers.

8. Schedule a video interview

It’s hard to get a read on someone when you’re unable to see their facial expressions or check their body language. Beyond interviewing applicants on the phone, conduct a video interview through services like Skype too.

Not only will have get a better sense of who they are but also you will see their sketches or hear their stories in real-time. You may check their etiquette or behaviour with video calls, which are an important medium of sharing concepts with remote workers.

Where to find an exceptional graphic designer

If you’ve ever thought of hiring a skilled graphic designer for your business, you know that it’s a daunting decision to make. Like any time you think about outsourcing work, you want someone who you’ll work well with and who suits your needs.

The process of choosing a designer doesn’t have to be overwhelming with our help here at Remote Workmate. We provide offshore staffing services for all kinds of roles, including that for a graphic designer in the Philippines.