In an increasingly digital world where companies are always competing to build their online presence, hiring an experienced digital designer is of paramount importance and the hiring process should reflect this. The guide below will take into account some of the key points that should be consider if you want to hire a digital designer that aligns with the intersts of your company.
What is a Digital Designer?
Digital designers possess specific technical and artistic skills. They are Their expertise spans a wide array of mediums, including, but not limited to:
Web Design
Both the design and development that follow the UX/UI design principles are important.
Graphic Design
The development of branded visual design like logos, illustrations and branding materials that reflect the personality of the brand.
UI/UX Design
Ensuring usability is at the forefront by considering the user journey, wireframing, prototyping and ensuring smooth user experience in digital products and applications.
Multimedia Content
Additionally building interactive media such as animations, videos, and features that encourage a closer connection with the content as a way to increase user engagement.
Skillset and Expertise
Beyond the technical skills of a digital designer they must possess visual intelligence and have in-depth knowledge of colour theory, typography, and layout. In addition, they are the ones that much keep on top of the latest design, technology and user behaviour trends to ensure they are always ahead of the latest innovations.
Image Credit- Amit Chakrabarti
What to Look for in a Digital Designer?
Employing an appropriate digital designer is not just about judging technical skills. It's about finding an individual whose traits align to your project’s needs and those of your team. When seeking a digital designer, consider these key qualities:
Creative Vision
Look out for a designer who shows a strong creative imagination and can see beyond the conventional borders of graphic design. They should demonstrate their innovative ideas and the portfolio that will speak volumes about their unique thinking about design.
Strong Portfolio and Diverse Experience
A strong portfolio indicates a designer's ability. Select people who hold portfolios containing projects of different mediums and areas, proving versatility and a wide scope of design skillsets.
Understanding of User Experience (UX)
A talented digital designer not only creates stunning visual designs but he or she emphasizes user experience. Find the applicants focusing on the user-centric design principles which result in the creation of products and services that are comfortable, accessible for all, and fully meet the user’s needs.
Technical Proficiency
Creativity, of course, is crucial. However, technical skills are indispensable too. By doing so, you will be able to verify that your candidate masters the design software and tools required for each task and project.
Examining these qualities during your search for a digital designer mean's you'll be more likely to produce a candidate who not only fits the technical qualifications but also gets along well with other team members and adds value through his/her skills, creativity and cooperative attitude.
Image Credit- Richan Li
Where to look for Digital Designers?
When hunting for the best digital designers, knowing where to look is half the battle. Here are some key avenues to explore:
Design Communities and Forums
Working with online design groups and communities can help you get in touch with lead designers who are passionate about their craft.
Referrals and Networking
Utilize your network of professional contacts and request referrals from your colleagues, friends, and professional acquaintances. Meeting potential clients in real-time can also be helpful when you attend design events, conferences, and meetups.
Company Websites and Portfolios:
A portfolio offers valuable insights into a designer’s style, skill level, and past projects.
Social Media Platforms:
Join as many social media platform as possible and follow hashtags related to digital design and design influencers.
Using Creativepool
Looking to hire a digital designer? Creativepool has thousands of talented members waiting to make your projects stand out.
There are 3 ways for you to find a digital designer on Creativepool.
Search and Contact
Want greater control of who you work with and the process behind it? Searching for talent directly and handpicking who you would like to work is a great way to be proactive in your talent hunting.
Simply search for digital designers and browse through the results. You will be able to look through various projects and CVs/Resumes of the talent listed to make an informed decision on your next hire.
On Creativepool we use a series of indicators to rank our members based on job title. Looking through the top 25 ranked digital designers is also a powerful and quick way to view the top talent on the platform.
Once you have found someone whose style and experience works for you, contact them directly by clicking on the message tab. Searching is ideal if you have a very specific idea about the kind of creative you would like to work with.
Post a studiogig
Looking for a freelance digital designer? The quickest way to find available talent is to advertise your brief. With Creativepool, briefs for individuals are called studiogigs.
Posting your role is quick and easy and once you have posted it, we get busy behind the scenes selecting the best talent for you. Once you have advertised your brief then just sit back and wait for applicants to come to you directly!
Post a job
If you are looking for a permanent digital designer, then advertising a digital designer job is the best way to attract top talent. The process is identical to posting a studiogig.
Once you have posted your role we will check the details of the adverts, send out job alerts to our community that best match your criteria and post on the jobs board. The studiogigs applicants that are interested in the roles will apply to you direct.
Whether posting a job or a studiogig or searching for talent, you are in control of who you hire. You are under no obligation to choose any of the applicants, and you negotiate rates with them directly.
If you need any help on your talent hunt. You can chat with us or send us a message. We're always happy to help.
Conclusion
Hiring a digital designer is process that requires precision and planning. By following a strategic approach, businesses can secure a digital designer who not only meets but exceeds project expectations, elevating their digital presence.
Remember, the price of excellence is diligence. Strategic hiring isn’t just about filling a role; it’s about sculpting your digital identity. Invest time, choose wisely, and watch your brand flourish.
Header Image - Edwin Leung
