Foremost among your considerations should be the product you are buying: graphic design. Most professional designers will show you samples of a range of their work – their portfolio – at your first meeting. This gives you an opportunity to see the sort of work the designer does as well as evaluate his skill and appropriateness for your specific product or service. However, your interaction with the designer and his work history can also be important factors in your decision.

Thinking:
Quality graphic design demonstrates strong, strategic thinking as well as pleasing aesthetics. Ask the designer to explain the rationale behind the work to get a good sense of her ability to solve problems.

Craftsmanship:
Take a close look at things like print quality, readability and an overall well-crafted appearance to the work. If the designer’s previous work doesn’t meet the same standard of quality as your product or service, chances are his work for you won’t, either.

Specialty:
While professional designers are trained to solve any design problem, many choose to specialize in a specific industry – such as homebuilding or medical – or service – such as advertising or packaging. Ask the designer what her area of specialty is, and look for areas in her portfolio that demonstrate experience in specific areas. Considering these factors can help you find a perfect fit or avoid a mismatch.

Personality:
First impressions mean a lot. Just as your customers take their initial interaction with you into account when making a purchasing decision, you should consider what sort of impression a designer makes on you. Also, think about how a designer will mix with your corporate culture. Opposites can attract, but if a designer rubs you the wrong way, it may not make for the best working relationship.

Reputation:
Don’t be afraid to ask for references. Most professional designers are proud of their relationships with their other clients, and those clients will be able to give you an objective opinion of the designer’s working style, personality and quality.