If you are a graphic designer...

[BedraggledBlitz]

Please tell me how to be a good client!

I have had issues with every designer I've worked with. The results don't look very professional (like clip art, cramped layout etc). I've used 3 different agencies and not been impressed with any. I'm starting to think it's me, maybe I'm too fussy.

For example, how much direction should I be giving? I try giving a brief in terms of what achieve, but encourage them to use their creativity, then have to go back and point out images are low res and look pasted in etc. Then I spend ages on internet finding examples of what works well to give an idea of expectations. It's really time consuming.

@fowlweather that brings me out in hives! Might have to start a 'bloody awful "design"' thread 🤣

I'm an illustrator and have worked in design for years. £250 is really cheap for a decent standard of design.

I illustrate and do the occasional logo.

£180 gets you around 6 hours of my time - if you are clear and to the point, have realistic ideas and don't try to change the brief multiple times or include every idea you have ever had.. that can get you a decent logo or illustration.

I think it sounds like you've picked the wrong people to work with - have you seen examples of their previous work?

I know @Novinosincebambino , it's painful to see it especially when it's peppered with spelling mistakes etc too.

Hi, I've been a designer for 20years,
I suggest you provide examples of all your existing collateral, include some examples of what you have in mind.
You need to explain where this will be used, trade shows or handed out after sales meetings, or online for download?
You also need to be clear about it's purpose, is it a sales piece, how to guide or product brochure?
In reality for £250 that's a few hours work and a decent designer should be able to do a good layout of 4pages in that time with one round of amends.