Effective Ways to Give Feedback to a Designer: Tips for Clear Communication

Working with a graphic designer can be an exciting process, especially if it’s your first time collaborating on visual branding. Whether you’re looking to redesign your logo, create marketing materials, or build a cohesive brand identity, providing clear, honest feedback is key to getting the results you want. Here’s a guide to help you communicate effectively with your designer, especially if you’re a small business owner and this is your first time navigating the design world.

1. Ask Questions and Clarify Expectations

Before starting your project, you might have several questions for your designer. Some common questions include:

• How will I know if the design aligns with my brand? Good designers will help guide you through the process by asking questions about your brand values, target audience, and visual preferences. If you prefer a specific art style, just let the designer know! What are your brand words or adjectives (i.e. are you Minimalist, Understated, and Elegant, or does your business embody more Playful, Whimsical, and Charming attributes? We’ll aim to reflect your business identity in the designs. all in attracting the right audience to your business!  This is the Branding Questionnaire that sets the tone for the work to come.
• What if I don’t like the initial design? When I gather the above information about your project requirements and do my homework,  it’s rare several rounds of revisions are needed. 1 round, if not 2 is standard. Designers typically do offer rounds of revisions, so don’t be afraid to give feedback and suggest changes. Just be clear about what you want to change and why. 
• How much input can I have during the process? Your input is crucial, and a good designer will welcome your ideas. It’s important to give feedback at the right stages of the process—early on during the concept phase, and later when you review drafts.

2. Be Honest and Specific

When giving feedback, it’s essential to be as honest and specific as possible. If you don’t like a design, it’s okay to say so, but explain why. Instead of saying, “I don’t like this,” try saying, “The colors feel too dark for my brand, which is meant to be bright and welcoming.” This kind of specific feedback helps the designer understand your vision and adjust the work accordingly.

3. Use Visual References

If you find it hard to describe what you want, share examples of designs you like. This can help the designer get a better sense of your preferences. You don’t need to copy another business’s design, but references to styles, colors, or layouts that you find appealing will help.

4. Keep the Big Picture in Mind

Remember that your designer is there to help elevate your brand. If a design doesn’t immediately speak to you, try to see it from the perspective of your target audience. Will it appeal to your ideal customer? This can help you give more constructive, forward-thinking feedback.

Remember, our goal is to create a brand that not only reflects you but also speaks directly to the people you want to reach.

5. Communicate your Timeline and Budget

Before you begin, clarify your budget and timeline with your designer. Having these details upfront ensures there are no surprises later on. If you’re working on a tight schedule, let your designer know so they can plan accordingly. Keep in mind that the length of the project highly depends on the communication by the client as well.

Wrapping it up

Launching a new brand or website is an exciting step, but the right designer can make all the difference. The process should be collaborative and focused on your goals, ensuring a design that aligns with your brand and business vision. Whether it’s logo or print marketing design, there are key factors to consider based on your unique needs. If you have any questions or want to discuss your project further, feel free to contact me directly. Let’s make your vision a reality!