Graphic design is more than just about picking the right shapes and colors. There’s a lot of ideas and even a science behind creating eye-catching and effective designs. This is why in most cases, it’s better to hire a graphic design agency instead of doing things yourself.
When you’re hiring a graphic design agency, it’s important to know what red flags to look for. Here are eight red flags to watch out for:
1. Unprofessionalism
This is the number one red flag to look for in a graphic design agency. If an agency is unprofessional, it means that they don’t take their work seriously and that they’re not true professionals. This can be reflected in everything from their website and portfolio to the way they communicate with you. If an agency is unprofessional, it’s best to avoid working with them.
2. Lack of a Professional Portfolio
A professional graphic design agency will have an online portfolio that showcases their previous work. If an agency doesn’t have a portfolio, it’s likely because they either don’t have any relevant experience or they’re not proud of the work they’ve done in the past. Either way, it’s not a good sign.
3. Poor Quality Work
Even if an agency has a portfolio, it’s important to take a close look at the quality of their work. If the work is poor quality, it’s likely that the agency is cutting corners and not putting in the effort to produce high-quality work.
4. Unclear Pricing
When you’re considering working with a graphic design agency, it’s important to get an estimate of the costs upfront. If an agency is unclear about their pricing or refuses to give you a clear estimate, it’s a red flag that they may be trying to take advantage of you.
5. Pressure to Make a Decision
If an agency is pressuring you to make a decision about working with them, it’s a red flag. A good agency will understand that you need time to make a decision and they’ll be patient while you do so.
6. Lack of Communication
Communication is key in any relationship, including the one between you and your graphic design agency. If an agency is slow to respond to your emails or phone calls, it’s a sign that they’re not interested in maintaining open communication.
7. Missed Deadlines
If an agency has a history of missing deadlines, it’s a major red flag. An agency that can’t meet deadlines is likely to be unreliable and will cause you nothing but headaches.
8. Lack of Customer Service
If an agency doesn’t seem interested in providing good customer service, it’s a red flag. A good agency will go above and beyond to make sure their clients are happy.
When you’re considering working with a graphic design agency, it’s important to be on the lookout for red flags. If an agency is unprofessional, has a poor quality portfolio, or is unclear about their pricing, it’s best to avoid working with them. By keeping an eye out for these red flags, you can avoid working with an agency that isn’t right for you.