Designing is an intricate process that requires attention to detail, creativity, and technical skills. Unfortunately, even the most talented designers can make avoidable mistakes.
Here are 20 of the most common mistakes made by graphic designers, so you can avoid them in your own work.
1. Not proofreading your work
One of the most common mistakes graphic designers make is not proofreading their work before it goes to print. This can lead to embarrassing typos or layout errors that could have easily been avoided. Always take the time to proofread your work before sending it off to your client or printer.
2. Relying on autocorrect
Another mistake designers make is relying too heavily on autocorrect features in their software. While these features can be helpful, they can also introduce errors to your work if you're not careful. Always proofread your work after using autocorrect to ensure that no mistakes have been introduced.
3. Not knowing the tools you're using
Graphic design software can be complex, and it's important to know all the features and tools available to you. Otherwise, you might not be able to create the designs you envision. Before starting a project, take some time to learn all the features of your software.
4. Not backing up your work
Backing up your work is essential to avoid losing important files or hours of work. Make sure to save your work frequently and to have a backup system in place in case of a computer crash.
5. Not having a consistent style
Developing a consistent style is important for both individual designers and design firms. Your style should be reflected in your portfolio, website, and social media presence. Having a consistent style makes you more recognizable and trustworthy to potential clients.
6. Not knowing your audience
Understanding your audience is crucial to creating effective designs. Whether you're designing for a corporate client or a small business, you need to know who your target audience is and what they're looking for. Only then can you create designs that will resonate with them.
7. Not being able to take criticism
As a designer, you will inevitably receive criticism from clients or colleagues. It's important to be able to take criticism constructively and use it to improve your work. If you can't handle criticism, it will be difficult to grow as a designer.
8. Not being able to work under pressure
Designers often have to work under tight deadlines, so it's important to be able to work well under pressure. If you're the type of person who gets frazzled easily, learns some time management and stress-relief techniques to help you stay calm under pressure.
9. Not being able to meet deadlines
Missing deadlines is a sure way to upset clients and damage your reputation. If you're constantly struggling to meet deadlines, take a closer look at your time management skills and see if there's anything you can improve.
10. Being a perfectionist
While it's important to strive for excellence in your work, being a perfectionist can be a hindrance. If you're constantly second-guessing your work or making small changes that don't improve the overall design, you're likely wasting valuable time. Learn to trust your instincts and move on from your designs when they're good enough.
11. Not being able to take constructive criticism
Similar to point number seven, being able to take constructive criticism is essential for designers. If you can't take criticism, you won't be able to improve your work. Learn to listen to feedback and use it to make your designs better.
12. Overusing design trends
While it's important to be aware of current design trends, using them too much can make your work look dated. Use trends sparingly and make sure they enhance your design, rather than overpower it.
13. Not diversifying your portfolio
When you're trying to land new clients, it's important to have a diverse portfolio that showcases your skills. If your portfolio only contains designs for one type of client or industry, you might have a hard time convincing potential clients that you're the right designer for them.
14. Not having an online presence
In today's digital world, it's essential to have an online presence as a graphic designer. Make sure your website is up-to-date and includes your latest work. You should also be active on social media, so potential clients can get to know you and your work.
15. Not knowing your worth
Many designers make the mistake of not charging enough for their services. As a result, they end up working long hours for little pay. It's important to know your worth as a designer and to charge accordingly. Otherwise, you'll never be able to earn a livable wage.
16. Discounting your services
As a designer, your time is valuable. You should never discount your services just to get a job. Sure, you may need to negotiate your rate for certain projects, but that’s different from outright discounting your work.
Not only does discounting your services devalue your work, but it can also lead to clients who low-ball you on future projects. After all, if you were willing to work for cheap once, why wouldn’t they think you’d do it again?
17. Not networking
As a designer, it’s important to network. Get to know other designers, join relevant professional organizations, and attend industry events. Not only will this help you keep up with the latest design trends, but it will also help you meet potential clients and collaborators.
18. Working for free
Working for free is a mistake, plain and simple. Unless you’re doing pro bono work for a nonprofit organization or you’re just starting out and desperately need portfolio pieces, never work for free.
By working for free, you’re devaluing your work and sending the message that you’re not worth being paid for your time and effort. If a client asks you to work for free, politely decline and explain why you don’t do free work.
19. Not having a contract
As a designer, it’s always a good idea to have a contract. A contract protects both you and the client and outlines the scope of work, deadlines, and payment terms.
If a client doesn’t want to sign a contract, that’s a red flag. It could be an indication that they’re not serious about the project or that they’re trying to take advantage of you. Either way, it’s not worth working with a client who isn’t willing to sign a contract.
20. Not getting paid
This is a common mistake among designers, especially those who are just starting out. They complete a project and then the client doesn’t pay them.
If this happens to you, don’t just sit back and take it. Send the client a polite but firm email asking them to pay you for your work. If they don’t respond or they try to make excuses, you can take legal action.
Final thoughts
Graphics design is a career with a lot of potential for creativity and personal expression. However, as with any profession, there are certain mistakes that are commonly made by those in the field. By being aware of these mistakes, you can avoid them in your own work and become a better designer. Cheers to all the hard-working graphic designers out there!
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