Whether you’re rebranding or a new business launching in 2024, you need to hire a graphic designer for your logo. Check out this guide to learn how to hire a graphic designer in 2024.
Things to Remember Before Hiring a Graphic Designer
1. Establish Your Brand Identity
Before you hire a graphic designer for a logo, you need to do this step first. A graphic designer will need context about your business. And if you don’t have this detail, they could provide logos that won’t fit your branding. Here are details when building your brand identity:
- Personality
- Niche
- Goals
- Mission and vision
- Customer base
- Message or positioning
Once you have these details, you can add them to your design brief when hiring a graphic designer.
2. Research Competitors
Before hiring a graphic designer for a logo, you need to know what your competitors are up to. Not only will you get a sense of what their identity is, but what logos they also have. You want to avoid having a similar-looking logo with an established competitor. You can also submit competitor logos to your designer so they know what to avoid or how they can design yours.
3. Discover Your Preferred Logo Style
Your graphic designer will also ask you what logo styles you prefer. You can choose among different logo styles:
- Wordmark
- Lettermark (monogram)
- Pictorial
- Abstract
- Combination
- Mascot
- Emblem
- Dynamic
Sites like Behance and Dribbble are a good place to start when exploring logo designs. Similarly, you can check out this logo design list for inspiration!
4. Finalize Logo Colors and Typography
Finally, you need to decide what colors or fonts to use on your logo. Some designers will ask this for reference and to give you an accurate representation of your envisioned design. If you need imagery, this might take longer, considering it’s custom-made for your brand. Once you’ve ironed out these details, you can finally hire a graphic designer for your logo.
How To Hire a Graphic Designer for a Logo?
1. Do Your Research
You can choose from three graphic design services for your logo. Each service has its pros and cons. Plus, you can’t expect all services to offer the same thing. Know which service fits your budget and go from there.
2. Set a Budget
A logo isn’t the only branding asset you’ll need to grow your brand. Some graphic design services and freelancers offer more than a logo. For example, they provide brand packages, saving you more money. Make sure to set a budget and know what you want out of the designer. From there, you can save time and money in the long run.
3. Select Your Preferred Service
Once you’ve finalized your research and budget, it’s time to choose your preferred service. Note that some services require you to interview graphic designers before choosing them as your logo designer. Meanwhile, some have vetted designers on their team. Know which one you should choose from the options below!
Graphic Design Services for Logo Creation
1. Freelancers
If you select this option, you need to undergo the hiring process. This means you have to message them and set up an interview. After that, you want to make sure that they’re a legitimate designer so you could also do a design test. However, they’re the ideal service if it’s only a logo you’ll need.
2. Agencies
Agencies are usually a great option if you want to build a brand. They work with graphic design experts and consultants to capture a brand’s identity. They’re a great partner to work with. However, they can be expensive for small businesses on a budget.
3. Graphic Design Companies
Our final option to find a graphic designer is from graphic design companies. You don’t need to hire them anymore since they have vetted designers on their team. Plus, you can choose if you want a one-off design option or a subscription one. One caveat of a one-off design service is you can’t opt out of the package or bundle. Plus, for the subscription service, if you don’t have a high design demand, it’s better to hire a freelancer or use the one-off service.
How Much Does it Cost to Pay a Graphic Designer for a Logo?
The starting price for any logo design is $5 across various freelance sites. You might be enticed to purchase a logo for as low as $5. But here’s what you can expect from this price for a new logo:
- 1 to 3 logo variations
- Vector file
- Printable file
Similarly, you can pay $5 to edit or redesign your existing logo.
However, you must remember that it’s a logo. You don’t want to spend $5 on your branding. You should build a brand that will be recognizable from one image. Even Nike didn’t spend $5 for their swoosh logo in 1971. It would cost around $280 in 2023. That’s why you should reconsider getting a $5 logo. You could get a starter logo, especially if you still have a low budget. But if you’re starting to establish an identity, consider a logo a long-term investment, meaning you must spend more than $5.
But is there a set cost or price when paying a graphic designer for a logo?
No, but consider these prices and inclusions.
Freelance Prices
As indicated above, freelance prices start at $5. But here’s what you’ll get for $10 above, $50 above, and $100. Do note that freelancers charge hourly or per project.
- $10 and above - up to three logo variations, revisions vary, printable and vector files, logo transparency, and source files
- $50 and above - similar to the above prices, but faster turnaround and various formats provided
- $100 and above - unlimited logo designs and revisions, various file formats, priority customer services; some offer full brand or social media identity
Agency Prices
Agency prices depend on what you need. Typically, they offer more than logos and help you set up your brand with the necessary assets. Ebaq Design says that agencies charge between $1,000 to $55,000.
Graphic Design Company Prices
There are two types of graphic design companies. One is the one-off design company, which means you can purchase their services for one time. Most of them offer bundles or packages which will be more affordable. Meanwhile, unlimited graphic design services allow you to subscribe monthly, depending on your design needs.
One-off design companies usually start packages from $99. On the other hand, unlimited graphic design services start their plans at $399/mo.
