What does a graphic designer do and do I need one?
We are surrounded by graphic design. From the pen in your hand, the logo on your coffee cup, to the packaging on your breakfast cereal, graphic design is everywhere. When you consider the fact that almost every single thing that you can see was at some point created by a graphic designer, the importance of this role becomes clear!
So what exactly does a graphic designer do, and why does your company or organization need one?
Promotional flyers. Mailers. Posters. Signs. Banners. Logos. Websites. Social Media posts. Menus. Packaging. Brochures. Folders. Door Hangers. Postcards. Video Graphics. Books. Window Clings. Vehicle Wraps. Business Cards. Billboards.
What other items could you add to this list?
If you run a business, a department or an organization, you are going to need to have something in print or in digital at some point, and when you do, you are going to need a graphic designer. The reason things look “good” on a billboard, a website or a sign isn’t an accident: the balance, composition, color scheme, white space, EVERYTHING is purposeful and a consequence of training and experience. And now more than ever, the discipline of graphic design is moving into the tech space as new software and applications are constantly evolving and updating.
Graphic Designers take their talent, creativity, passion, education, skills, and experience and become a visual storyteller for your brand. They are also able to create a blueprint that everyone on your team can follow, to keep your imaging, logos, and messaging consistent.
Even if you are currently utilizing a design app like Canva or Spark, you are still taking advantage of a graphic designer’s skill set, albeit it vicariously. So with so many do-it-yourself or outsourcing options, why do you need a graphic designer to help you tell the world about your company or organization?
It’s because designers use their skills and creativity to take what it is that makes your brand so special and renders it out digitally or in print for all the world to see. If you are passionate about your brand or the brand you are representing, you know that it’s special and unique. Is it important to you that your audience knows this too?
If you answered yes, then you need a graphic designer! A professional will have a portfolio that they can show you, and will take the time to learn about you, your company, your brand, and your audience. Remember, you are telling a story with everything that you present to your target audience, whether it’s a postcard, a table-top banner or a coupon, and your business deserves the very best storyteller.
Everything that your current and potential customers see is the visual representation of your brand. The right color, shape, spacing and typeface, font, etc are all needed to effectively communicate your brand values and essence and can make the difference between being remembered, and never being noticed in the first place.
So if your brand could benefit from the special treatment that it would get from a professional, you need a graphic designer!
When you start your search, remember to ask to see examples of past work, and ensure that they are willing and enthusiastic about getting to know you and your brand. If you wanted your brand to look like everyone else’s, you’d outsource it or use an app, so make sure you are getting the most out of your graphic designer!
