I don’t want to toot my own horn, but I think I’m a pretty decent graphic artist. I can make things pretty. I’ve got a handle on color theory, typography, layout… all those things they teach ya in art classes. But when it comes down to it, those things are NOT the most important part of being a good designer.
The most important part of being a good designer is the ability to listen to your clients. Really listen. Listen to what they want. And then listen between the lines to see what they REALLY want.
Now here is the tricky part. Not everyone has the ability to describe what they really want. They may have a vision in their head, but getting it out… well let’s just say that’s not easy for everyone. And being able to get that out of your clients’ heads and onto paper or screen… that is what is the most important skill of a good graphic designer.
Along with sitting back and really listening, you’ve got to ask the right questions. You need to get at the heart of your client’s needs. Who is their target market? What sort of design do they personally like? Are there colors they like/dislike? Are they conservative (not necessarily politically) or do they prefer cutting edge? You need to be able to get a feel for their personality and energy and then match that with their design.
And then comes the most difficult part. You have to do what your client wants to see, even if you don’t personally like it. There may very well be times when you’re sitting at your computer working on a project, telling your coworkers, or your dog, or anyone who is there that you really don’t want to do it this way. But it always boils down to what works for the client. You may be able to explain to these clients how your way works best, or looks best. But if they’re adamant about it. Make em happy. Because in the end, it’s not your design. They paid you for it, and it’s theirs.
What do you think? If you’re someone who hires graphic designers, is it hard to describe what you want? If you’re a graphic designer, is it hard to listen?
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September 22, 2009 at 8:51 pm
quartermania
This is so true! As a designer and in every aspect of life! You hit it right on the nose baby!
September 22, 2009 at 9:24 pm
amy iverson
It is true with every designer. Designing basements is no different. We will point out the pros and cons of a design change and at the end of the day the customer must be happy. As you said “it’s theirs”