So you've met with the designer, agreed a brief and it's all systems go.....or is it? You just might be tempted to have a plan B or a fall back. After all you've never worked with this designer before, do you still feel a little uncomfortable putting all your eggs in one basket?
It is at this point you might think of engaging more than one designer, no harm talking to a few, eh?
Stop there! If you're not sure about your choice of designer you've chosen the wrong one.
Before you get to this point you need to have done your homework. As I said in my previous blog, you need to research before choosing a design company. Choose two or three companies on their portfolios and reputation, invite them to talk over the brief or send it to them. Whatever you do don't ask for design work up-front as part of a pitch.
Though some designers do partake in this practice, most reputable ones do not. From a client's perspective it might seem like a good bet. Nothing to pay for stage one of the project and several different approaches to choose from. But ask yourself why any company would want to give their creative ideas away for nothing? It's the backbone of their business. Once it's given away for free how can it possibly have any value later! Are you really going to get the best work this way? Also as the design process will need further development stages before the final result is achieved, what is the point of choosing after the first stage anyway? Free pitches are not for professionals; if a designer says yes to a free pitch, you have to question why.
If you want more than one design company to look at your project then ask for a proposal. This will tell you how they work and what they intend to do for you. They could also give you an outline guide on the scope of work, as they see it, and possible costs involved. This, along with a face-to-face meeting should give you a clear indication of who to choose. The design process is as much about relationship building as it is about creative work. The best creative work can only be achieved for your business if the designer gets to know your business.