Hiring a Graphic Designer – Diverse Portfolio vs. Industry Experience

When hiring a graphic designer, many companies question whether it’s best to search for a professional with experience in their specific industry or one with a diverse portfolio. The answer is that there is no clear-cut answer. While arguments can certainly be made both ways, every designer has their own unique flair and value, and the key is finding one whose style and experience fits best within your corporate culture.

Below, we’ve listed a few pros and cons for each type of graphic designer that should offer insight into which may be better for your particular business needs.

Extensive experience in your industry

Pros:
By selecting a professional graphic designer with prior experience in your industry, you can rest easy knowing that they’ve already done thorough research on your industry’s trends and marketing strategies. These designers typically boast a roster of satisfied clients in your related field, increasing your chances of getting the exact look and style you’re searching for.

Cons:
Because the designer has worked with many other organizations in the same industry, you risk your design appearing too similar to others’ in your field. When working with this type of designer, be sure to communicate differentiating factors you’d like to maintain to ensure that your design stands out from the competition.

A diverse portfolio

Pros:
Choosing a graphic designer with a diverse portfolio (industry, projects, scope, style, etc.) is proof that the designer is versatile, creative and flexible. He or she has a demonstrated record of catering to multiple industries and tastes, and is likely able to translate your ideas into innovative, successful designs.

Cons:
By hiring a professional graphic designer based solely on his or her portfolio vs. specific experience, you could run into a situation where the designer may be encountering an industry for the very first time. This will require him or her to spend extra time researching your market, products and services, which could mean some additional costs on your end.

Regardless of which route you choose, keep in mind that you should always feel 100% confident in the designer’s quality and style of work:

• Are their designs unique, clean and modern?
• Is the designer willing to tweak designs until clients are totally satisfied?
• Does he or she have a strong, memorable portfolio?
• Do they have praising testimonials from previous graphic design clients?

These are all important factors to consider and can easily separate a mediocre designer from a top-notch professional. Never be afraid to ask questions, request work samples or critically evaluate the designer’s personal demeanor. In most cases, companies are looking for more than a one-and-done designer – they want a reliable, outstanding partner that they can have in their back pocket as a valuable resource for the future.