Clients depend on designers to execute a vision or develop new ideas.
Successful designers have a shared set of qualities that help them
create the best designs and satisfy the most discriminating clients.
Some of those qualities include:
- Artistic Ability: A great designer has a natural artistic talent and is skilled in a variety of art techniques.
- Awareness of Audience: A great designer is aware of his or her audience and tailors the work to meet the expectations of that particular audience.
- Communication: A great designer has excellent communication skills. They are good listeners and able to garner what a client is expecting. They are able to engage in meaningful conversations with clients to ensure both parties are in agreement of the work that is being done.
- Creativity: A great designer is very creative and able to develop new, innovative ideas for projects. They are always thinking of different approaches and techniques.
- Eye for Materials: A great designer has an eye for color, texture, fabric, space, and other elements that go into various designs. They are aware of the extensive variety of materials available and understand what works well in particular projects.
- Humility: A great designer has a strong sense of humility and recognizes that people have varying tastes. They are not afraid of criticism and can handle recommendations for change.
- Problem Solving: A great designer has keen problem solving skills. When snags arise in design, they are able to quickly and calmly develop a solution.
- Team Player: A great designer works well with others. Often, designs require the input of other designers, and a great designer must be able to work well with anyone involved in the design process.
- Technical Skills: A great designer has a wide variety of technical skills. They are able to use computer programs to aid in the design process, as well different manual design techniques.
- Vision: A great designer has an excellent sense of vision and can grasp what it is a client is asking for. A great designer is able to visualize the end result and set a clear goal.