Ask any business owner what they’d like more of and there’s a good chance they’d answer time. (Or money, but having more time can help with that!) Would you? People are so busy these days, but not always busy with the right things. We sweat the small stuff while the more important things are left …
quoting
Can I get a sample design?
“Can I get a sample design?” is a question that prospective clients often ask their designers. It is a question that can easily annoy a designer, so if you plan on asking it, please be aware that you might, however inadvertently, cause offence. Don't worry, it's actually been a long time since I was …
3 things I wish I knew before starting a business
You know, I never planned to start a business. At school, when I was daydreaming about my future career, it’s not an option that even occurred to me. But fast forward a couple of decades (yikes, how did that happen?!) and I now run two businesses. I love it. The freedom to be your own boss, in …
Why I don’t design logos for £50
If you only have £50 to spend on your logo, I’m not the designer for you. That’s pretty blunt; why not? I know what you’re thinking: “There are plenty of designers out there who will whip up a cheap logo; what makes you so special, missy?” The short, or flippant, answer is: because I have a …
Design briefs – how to get your project off to a great start
Great design projects start with great design briefs – that way both you and your designer are clear on what’s needed and what you're trying to achieve. But don't worry. This doesn’t always need to be a formal document or request for proposal. And don’t panic if you have no idea how to write a …
What Grand Designs can teach you about project management
Since 1999 Grand Designs has been following the exploits of self-builders across the UK. In over 100 episodes, however unusual or ambitious the project, the same problems have been encountered over and over again. Most of them happen because of the way the projects are managed, and there's a lot you …
How to understand design pricing
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image="4232" align="left"][vc_column_text]When you ask for quotes for design, you'll find that the cost may vary wildly, which can make pricing design projects seem like a dark art. With so much variation the prices can seem completely arbitrary and when you try …
Paid pitches: are they worth it?
Sometimes a client will ask to see some samples or ideas before hiring you for a project, otherwise known as a creative pitch. This practice is fine as long as it's a paid pitch – the client pays you for the work regardless of whether they end up using it or not – because if you start providing free …
The (other) problem with undercharging
As a freelancer, knowing what to charge is tricky and many find it hard to place a value their skills, experience and time. But once you've found this magic number, it can be equally challenging sticking to it and you may still find yourself undercharging. …