How to Find a Freelance Graphic Designer You Can Actually Trust

(Without Losing Your Brand - or Your Mind)

Hiring a freelance designer can feel a bit like crossing a minefield blindfolded.

There are treasures out there - brilliant, strategic, trustworthy creatives. But there are also a few traps: disappearing acts, underwhelming work, costly misunderstandings.

And the truth is, you’re not just hiring someone to make you look good. You’re trusting them to speak for you when you’re not in the room.

So how do you find someone who gets it — and gets you?

Here’s your no-fluff guide:

1. Start with real recommendations.

Forget anonymous 5-star reviews.

Ask people you trust - clients, colleagues, your LinkedIn network - who they trust with their brand.

If a designer made someone else's life easier and their business stronger, that's the best sign you’ll get.

2. Do a deep dive on testimonials.

Check LinkedIn recommendations.

Browse their website testimonials.

And don’t be afraid to reach out to a past client for a quick reality check.

A real pro won’t mind - in fact, they’ll probably encourage it.

3. Study their process, not just their portfolio.

Of course you want to love their design style - but that’s not enough.

Look for signs they ask smart questions, think strategically, and genuinely care about outcomes, not just outputs.

A great designer will want to understand your audience, goals, fears, and hopes - not just your Pantone preferences.

4. Start small.

Before you hand over your full brand redesign, try a small project first:

A social media template set

A one-page brochure

A single event graphic

It’s a low-risk way to see how they communicate, manage feedback, and meet deadlines.

5. Watch how you feel.

This is important.

Do you feel heard? Respected? Understood?

Or are you getting rushed emails, vague promises, and a gnawing feeling you’re a “task,” not a partner?

Trust your instincts.

The working relationship matters just as much as the final deliverable.

6. Don’t fall for the lowest price trap.

Cheap can be expensive.

Designers who dramatically undercharge often overbook themselves or cut corners - it’s simple math.

Remember: good design isn’t a luxury.

It’s an investment in how the world sees (and trusts) your brand.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a freelance graphic designer can feel daunting - and honestly, it should.

It’s a serious decision.

But when you find the right person, it’s magic:

Your brand feels stronger.

You feel prouder.

Your customers feel more connected.

Take your time.

Ask smart questions.

And find someone who feels like a creative partner, not just a supplier.

👉 If you found this helpful, I’ve also shared a real client story and some extra tips over on my LinkedIn post - join the conversation there!