5 Tips for *new* Freelance Designers
By: Natalie Stainton
Tags: Graphic Design, Freelance, Graphic Design Services, Client Relationship, Freelance Designer

1: Choose (and research) a platform to offer your design services

When it comes to choosing where you will offer your design services, the options are endless. You can create your own website and reach out to clients through email and building relationships. You can ask your friends if they know anyone who needs design work. Or, you can choose from a freelance job site such as Fiverr or Upwork. I personally chose Fiverr because I liked how it handles money transactions and helps create a way to display your gigs. On the downside, I found that I was not as protected as advertised towards mistreatment by clients, AND it took weeks for me to access my earnings. For these reasons alone, it is good to research these topics beforehand.

Some important factors to think about are:

How do you want to exchange financial transactions?

How long do you want to wait until you can access your earnings?

How do you want to communicate (and potentially dispute) with clients?

How do you want to showcase your work visually?

How do you want to advertise your work and gigs?

2. Contracts are a must!

Photo by Cytonn Photography on Unsplash

When I started freelancing, I always thought contracts were for people who took things too seriously, and I would never be that type of freelancer. Little did I know, they would become my best friend in the freelance world because this agreement will ultimately protect you and your rights (and on your own terms!). Here is where you can set the tone for clients and let them know your expectations when working together. Also, you can make agreements about payment and what happens if the client is dissatisfied. You can also state ownership rights, which may come in handy if a client attempts to use your work without paying in full. Also, be aware of what you are communicating to your client via email or messaging because you can make written agreements on that platform without it being a “formal” contract.

Here are some resources on how to write contracts:

AIGA Standard Form of Agreement for Design Services

11 mistakes freelancers make with design contracts

5 essential tips for drafting your next design contract

3. Talk about pay and know your value

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Look, I get it. Talking about the gig charge is uncomfortable for a multitude of reasons. For me, it was awkward because setting a price is subjective, and there may be a difference in values between client and freelancer on what should be the price. Sometimes you feel like you have to fight to justify your expense, creating some uncomfortable experiences. Think: what is my time worth? Once you know the answer and set a price, stick to it, and stand your ground.

Although there are no set rules for pricing, I like to refer to the Official Designers Union Minimum Price List

4. Do not be afraid of setting boundaries with clients

Photo by Michael Dziedzic on Unsplash

Work goes both ways. Just as the client is paying you to perform a service, you help them by performing your service. That being said, you deserve respect from your client, and there is no excuse for a client to mistreat you. Mistreatment from a client may include derogatory language, gaslighting, insults, and many more pleasant interactions. It is difficult to explain to a client that they need to be more respectful, but it is valid and necessary. As a disclaimer, this does not mean that we respond with derogatory language, but with respect, because this is still a business transaction. It is your choice whether you work with them or not, and no one else can make that call. In the case you do not want to work any further, I also hope you are making the connection to why a contract is essential: You can set baselines beforehand. You can explain there has been a breach of contract, and there has been disrespectful language. You will not be working any further and then discuss what happens from there depending on your agreement.

Here are some more tips for communicating with clients:

Effective client communication 101

How to deal with a rude, aggressive, or disrespectful client

5. Be open to feedback

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

This last one is important because your career’s growth relies on leveraging your strengths and learning from mistakes. Do not be afraid to send clients your own review form, asking them about what they liked and did not like working together. I understand; feedback is terrifying because it makes you vulnerable to the client’s feedback. I am always the first to say nobody’s perfect, but I was terrified to admit that reality for myself by getting feedback on what I needed to improve. Once I started asking more, I learned how to adapt my communication style and improve my weaknesses to leverage my business.

Here are some resources on gaining feedback:

7 Samples of Feedback Forms for Customers That Actually Work

How to write a great customer feedback form

Taking Constructive Criticism Like a Champ