Freelance Web Designer

If you're applying for a job designing print media, chances are the employer is going to want to know what kind of print you've worked with in the past. This also rings true for any design job, not just print-employers want to know how comfortable you are working in different mediums.

This is because employers want to know if they're going to have to train you on anything down the line, which could be expensive on their behalf. So they want to see what you already know to gauge how much further you still need to go. Be sure to mention the types of media you've worked within, the equipment you've used and any formal training you might have received along the way.

If you can manage it, bring examples of your past print work for the employer to see. Since this is print we're talking about, it makes an even bigger impression if you have actual, physical examples that the employer can touch, hold and possibly even keep for themselves. Check out our tips for designing a unique print design portfolio for more information.

...it makes an even bigger impression if you have actual, physical examples that the employer can touch, hold and possibly even keep for themselves.

If you don't have much experience with print (or any medium you might be planning to work with), then you still need to find a way to impart your knowledge of the subject so employers know that you at least have something to bring to the table. For example, do some research on print design before the interview so you can at least say that you understand the basic concepts and limitations of working in the medium.

Employers love it when employees take an interest in their company or brand, especially in the case of designers. After all, how can you design something that matches their brand's style if you don't know anything about them?

After all, how can you design something that matches their brand's style if you don't know anything about them?

Do your homework before the interview and try to come prepared with some idea of what the company is all about. You don't need to know all of the facts, but you should try to have an understanding of their overall message and philosophy, and why you are a good fit for them.

Employers are looking to work with designers who want to work with them, so if there's something about the company that you particularly like, now is the time to say so. Demonstrating that you share the same values as the brand helps you to look like the best candidate for the job.

If you can't find anything about the company, then this is your opportunity to learn more. Let the interviewer know that you tried to find information about the company, but were unable to. Then, ask them if they could fill you in on what you don't know. When the interviewer is done telling you about their company, reiterate your interest in the position based on your new knowledge of the company, and give some examples of why you fit in with their overall identity.

Reviewing a web designer's portfolio is the main way to get a sense of their overall design style. If you don't like their style, or know that it wouldn't be a good fit for your brand, then they're probably not the right designer for you.

When reviewing examples of a designer's past work, look for variation across their design projects. If they are fairly "cookie cutter," consider whether they will be able to adapt their style to fit your brand and audience profile.

Try to get an idea of whether they pay attention to detail in their designs. For instance:

☛ Are they consistent with their use of fonts, colours, and styles throughout the entire site?

☛ Have they considered the "little" things like appropriate font selection, line height, and text spacing?

☛ Is there a common theme carried throughout all pages and sections of the site?

☛ Do you find their sites easy to use and navigate?

☛ If you said yes to all or most of these questions, then the decision will come down to your personal preference and taste. It's natural that the work of some designers will simply appeal to you more than others.

Also note that if your designer is bringing in a photographer or copywriter to develop content for your site, you may want to see samples of their individual work as well, again looking to make sure that you like their overall style and approach.