POSTED IN
Design
WRITTEN BY
Richard Fang
DATE
Hiring the right designer is crucial for any company that values creativity and innovation. I’ve recently gone through the process of filtering thousands of designer applicants for my company, NTMY.io, and I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way. Here’s how I ended up hiring only the top 1% and why those designers stood out.
Communication Skills Matter
Many designers have great technical skills but often lack effective communication abilities. They might produce stunning visuals, but if they can’t explain the concept or story behind their design, it’s a missed opportunity.
In my experience, communication is just as important as the design itself. How can you sell a great idea if you can’t talk about it? That’s why I pay close attention to how applicants express themselves, both verbally and in writing.
The Portfolio Problem
I’ve seen countless portfolios, and let me tell you, not all are created equal. Here are a few things that lead to automatic rejection:
- Portfolios Over 30MB: If the file size is too large, it’s often a sign of poor optimization. This is an immediate red flag for me and often results in an auto-delete.
- Small Display Images: If I can’t see the details of your work, how can I assess its quality? Portfolios that display tiny images don’t make the cut.
- Standard CVs Without a Portfolio: Sending a standard CV without any design work tells me nothing about your creative abilities. This is another instant rejection.
The Importance of Written Communication
Written communication, such as responding to emails, serves as an initial non-design assessment. It’s an essential skill, especially since NTMY.io operates fully remotely. Clear and effective communication is a must. If an applicant can’t communicate professionally in writing, it’s a deal-breaker for me.
The Value of Meeting Deadlines
Completing a design test on time speaks volumes about a candidate’s professionalism. However, just meeting the deadline isn’t enough. The quality of work is equally important. Here’s what I look for in a design test:
- Typography: Proper use of typography is crucial. It’s one of the first things I check for to see if the applicant understands design basics.
- Color Combination: A good designer knows how to use colors effectively to create harmony and impact.
- Design Principles: Ignoring these is a major red flag. I expect applicants to demonstrate their understanding of these principles in their work.
The Relevancy of Design
When scoring the design test, relevancy is a key factor. A design might look great, but if it doesn’t fit the project’s purpose or target audience, it falls short. I want to see designs that are not only visually appealing but also relevant to the task at hand. This means understanding the client’s needs and aligning the design with the overall message and goals.
Salary Considerations
When it comes to salary, I’m willing to pay well within the appropriate range for the role and level of seniority. I don’t mind offering a higher salary if it means getting the right results. The investment is worth it when the quality matches the compensation.
Final Thoughts: The Top 1% Aren’t Just Talented
The hiring process taught me that finding the right fit isn’t just about skills; it’s about communication, presentation, and professionalism. The top 1% aren’t just talented; they align with our values and expectations. They are not only exceptional designers but also effective communicators who understand the importance of meeting deadlines and delivering quality work.
In the end, good design is good business. Investing time and effort into finding the right designer pays off by enhancing your company’s brand and delivering a superior product to your customers.
As I continue to build the team at NTMY.io, I remain committed to seeking out those top-tier designers who can elevate our brand and help us achieve our goals.
