How to find a local graphic designer
The UK has a wealth of design experience, anything from university students that have newly qualified with honors, to design studios that have been running for years and have been working with world wide brands.
The problem however is that there are thousands and thousands of graphic designers to choose from, how do you find the right one?
Asking a friend for a recommendation is popular (in fact many designers rely on this to get them new business) however a designer that is right for one person/company may not be right for another.
Trawling the internet looking for graphic designers will take you a long time, even if you are quite specific with your search criteria (selecting a location on google or a postcode area) it will take valuable time up to find a few designers, look through their design portfolios, contact them, chase them for design quotes etc.
Using a quotes service (such as Marketing Quotes) to get fast free quotes from local graphic designers can help you save time and effort. You can be as specific as you want and even set a budget stipulation for them to price to (ensuring that you get the best design prices).
Why work with a local graphic design agency?
There are a few reasons why it is advisable to work with a local agency. The main one being that you can meet with them and get a feel for what the agency is like. In a world of web and e-mail, meetings are becoming a thing of the past. It is highly recommended to meet with an agency (once you have decided to work with them) for a couple of reasons:
- You can get a feel for the agency culture
- You can get a feel for their understanding of your company/products
- You can get reassurance you have chosen the right agency
Most marketing agencies prefer not to meet with clients, as it does take up time, time that could be spent on other clients. Many agencies work mainly via e-mail - again so that they can manage their clients easier. This is true and does work well; however from a client perspective it may not be the best for you. You may be considered a high maintenance client however you want to get the most from your relationship with your graphic designer and therefore pushing for meetings with them is advised.
Do Not Dismiss Talent
There are some fantastic graphic designers that are not in the UK. Designers that have tallent way beyond the general graphic designer in the UK or the student that has just left university.
If you do not mind working from a distance, then using a highly experienced designer in another country could be more beneficial.
There are major benefits in using a local designer; but if they do not have the right skills, then considering someone from overseas could be an option.
The main thing to consider is talent - looking at the designers portfolio, do they inspire you. If not, then they are just another designer.