Designer, Meet Client; Client, Meet Designer

If you're ready to take your design work to the next level, taking on a "client" or two may be a great way to get started. Additionally, there are a few things that may help you establish yourself as a budding designer, as recommended by YouTheDesigner:


1. TESTIMONIALS

• Have clients write brief testimonials about your service, personality, work, etc.

2. "DESIGNED BY" LINKS

• If designing a website for client, work in a "Designed by" link

3. PRINT DESIGN CREDITS

• Try to get a design by-line with your smaller clients, as larger clients may not be willing to budge on the topic. 

4. LOGO USAGE RIGHTS

• When it comes to your CV or website, ask for rights to use the logo of former clients. This will help potential clients see what you've done in the past... and name drop,too!

5. CONTACT DETAILS

• If you only work over e-mail or by phone with a client, you may not have their full address. Be sure to ask for their full address to keep on file... Think Holiday cards and promotional postcards!

6. FUTURE BUSINESS

• Now that you have their contact information, let's put it to good use... A few times a year is likely a safe bet.
• Clients will often seek YOU out if they want new work so keep your contact info up to date with them.

7. REFERRALS

• In this line of work, word of mouth is key. Consider offering previous clients a finders fee, so if they refer you, they get a small percentage or a flat rate finders fee. This may bring in way more referrals.

Check out the video below for a bit of design humor...