Common Mistakes New Graphic Designers Make and How to Avoid Them

Starting a graphic design hustle can be scary and exciting as you’re starting a new career. I love working in graphic design and find it helps you use your creativity while doing something you love.

However, like any new venture, there are mistakes you can make as a new graphic designer. If you’re just getting started, here are the most frequent mistakes new graphic designers make and how you can avoid them.

1. Not understanding the client

Before starting any graphic design project, it’s imperative that you 100% understand what the client wants, their purpose, direction, and the audience of their company. Communication is key here. If you have questions, ask. If you don’t, you may end up getting really far into a project, and the end result will not satisfy the client’s needs, no matter how aesthetically pleasing the designs may be.

To keep this from happening, take notes and spend time understanding the client’s goals, target audience, and preferences.

Here are some questions you can ask your client:

What are the primary goals of this design?
Who is the target audience for this design?
Are there specific brand guidelines or style preferences to follow?
What message or feeling should the design convey?
Do you have examples of designs you like or dislike?
What is the deadline for this project?
Are there any existing assets or resources to incorporate?

2. Unappealing graphics

Creating appealing graphics is crucial because they capture attention and convey your message effectively in a crowded digital landscape. Well-designed visuals can enhance engagement, reinforce brand identity, and make content more memorable, ultimately driving better results and fostering stronger connections with your audience.

Here’s a list of rules for creating graphics:

Avoid clutter, and don’t overload the design
Don’t use hard-to-read fonts like script and small font
Stay away from colors that don’t align with the brand’s identity
Avoid low-resolution photos
Don’t overuse filters
Avoid generic or overused stock photos
Don’t use complex or lengthy messaging

I created a few examples of unappealing graphics so you can get an idea of what you shouldn’t make for a client. These graphics I made have way too much going on and difficult-to-read font.

In this example, the colors aren’t making sense together, the scripted font is hard to read, and overall it’s too busy.

3. Not charging enough

Pricing your services is one of the toughest parts of getting started as a graphic designer. Most people start their new career in graphic design undercharging for their services. This is either because they lack confidence or feel they need to offer low rates to attract clients. While I don’t personally think this is a bad idea when you’re first getting started because it helps you get testimonials and references, it’s not something you should continue doing.

Consistently undercharging for your work can lead to burnout and feeling unappreciated for your work.

To determine what you should charge, do research on standard rates for graphic designs in your area with your experience level.

As a general guideline, here’s what to charge:

Beginner: $15 – $25 per hour

Intermediate: $25 – $50 per hour

Expert: $50+ per hour

4. Forgetting to make a contract

A contract is a crucial step to working as a freelance graphic designer, so do not skip this step. Without a clear agreement in place, projects can spiral out of control, and you can end up doing way more work and having unclear deadlines.

Always have a contract that outlines at least the following:

Parties involved
Date of agreement
Services provided
Project schedule and revision terms
Pay (hourly or flat fee)
Payment schedule
Payment methods
Feedback and approval expectations
Conditions for termination
Late fees
Number of revisions included and cost for additional revisions
Signatures from both parties

You can create a graphic design contract using several tools and resources:

Rocket Lawyer
LegalZoom
PandaDoc
HelloSign
Google Docs
Canva

It never hurts to meet with a business lawyer one-on-one to perfect your graphic design contract. Meeting with a business lawyer one-on-one can provide valuable insights and ensure that your contract is legally sound and tailored to your specific needs. It’s a great way to cover all bases and protect both you and your clients.

5. Not building your portfolio

You need to have a portfolio when you’re searching for jobs. Without a portfolio, potential employers are going in blind and have no idea what kind of work you can do. In what can be a sea of applications, you’ll be dismissed early on.

When I didn’t have experience in the beginning, I used local businesses and mock businesses to create graphics. This allowed me to show off my skills without having official experience.

Another way to build your portfolio is by using VolunteerMatch.org and signing up for a graphic design opportunity. Tons of nonprofits out there need a graphic designer to help them reach more donors.

To find graphic design opportunities through VolunteerMatch.org, follow these steps:

Visit VolunteerMatch.org and create an account
Use the search bar to enter relevant keywords like “graphic design” and choose “remote”
Review the listings to find organizations that need graphic design help

By using these steps, you can connect with organizations in need of graphic design expertise and contribute your skills to meaningful causes.

6. Ignoring feedback

Getting feedback from clients is one of the best ways to grow and get better as a graphic designer. Even though we can put our heart and soul into our graphic design work, clients may not see it the same. Instead of becoming defensive or taking it personally, use it as an opportunity to improve your work.

Take client suggestions constructively and be flexible and open to revisions.

7. Poor time management

Freelancers who are working from home can struggle with time management. It can be easy to work all the time, on weekends, and at night when you could be spending quality time with friends and family or partaking in a hobby. Without clear deadlines and boundaries, it’s easy to overwork.

Develop a system to organize your tasks and products. I use Google Calendar to mark all of my tasks, which makes it easy to juggle working for two different companies. Set aside specific hours for your graphic design work.

8. Not having a portfolio, website, or social media

As a graphic designer, one of the best things you can do is develop a strong online presence. This can help showcase your work and attract potential clients. A website can serve as a central hub where businesses can explore your previous work, learn about your services and rates, and get in touch.

Social media platforms can expand your reach. By regularly sharing your work, design tips and styles, and behind-the-scenes content, you can build a following and trust.

Together, a portfolio, website, and active social media profiles can ensure businesses easily find your work and reach out to you.

Summary

Starting a graphic design side hustle can feel so rewarding! I feel so much passion in my work and genuinely enjoy creating. I truly feel like marketing is my passion and what I’m supposed to be doing. Remember, to keep thriving as a graphic designer, it’s key to understand your client, maintain professionalism, and always be open to learning and growing.

Now that you’re aware of these pitfalls, you’re better prepared to navigate your journey as a freelance graphic designer with confidence and creativity!