1. Vague or Last-Minute Feedback
- Designers thrive on clear, constructive feedback. Vague comments like “make it pop” or “something’s missing” can be frustrating, as they lack actionable guidance. Last-minute changes, especially after rounds of approval, can also disrupt workflows and lead to additional stress.
2. Micromanagement and Lack of Creative Freedom
- Creativity thrives with some level of autonomy. Designers typically dislike micromanagement or excessive control over minor details, which can stifle innovation. A rigid set of instructions without room for creativity often leads to work that feels uninspired.
3. Constant Revisions Without Additional Compensation
- Excessive revisions without agreed-upon compensation or a clear revision cap can be discouraging. It’s common for designers to set limits on revisions in contracts to protect their time and avoid “scope creep.”
4. “Make the Logo Bigger” Requests
- Many clients request larger logos under the impression that it boosts brand visibility. Designers, however, usually prefer proportional logo sizes to maintain balance and aesthetics within a design. A “bigger logo” is often seen as disruptive to the visual flow.
5. Unrealistic Deadlines
- Quick turnarounds are sometimes necessary, but consistently demanding tight deadlines can lead to burnout and lower-quality work. Designers appreciate when clients understand that high-quality design requires time for thoughtful execution and refinement.
6. Non-Credit for Work or Unpaid Projects “For Exposure”
- Designers often feel devalued when asked to work for free in exchange for “exposure” or portfolio content, which doesn’t pay the bills. Additionally, not being credited for work can feel like a lack of recognition, especially for freelancers and agencies who depend on visible work for future clients.
7. Ignoring or Misusing Design Files
- Designers invest time in creating design guidelines and structured files. Misusing these files (e.g., stretching logos, altering colours) disrupts the intended look and can make it appear as though the designer produced low-quality work.
8. Endless Comparisons to Other Designers or Brands
- While referencing design trends or competitors can be helpful, excessive comparisons can be frustrating. Each project is unique, and designers prefer the freedom to create solutions specific to their client’s needs rather than replicating others’ work.
9. Overemphasis on Trends Over Functionality
- Designers generally dislike when clients prioritise trends over functionality or brand alignment. Trends come and go, but designs tailored to the brand’s identity and user experience tend to be more effective long-term.
10. Requests for “Just a Quick Edit”
- Small tweaks can sometimes take longer than anticipated, especially in complex design files. What might seem like a quick change can disrupt schedules, so designers appreciate when clients respect their time, even for small adjustments.
These points underscore the importance of good communication, realistic expectations, and mutual respect in designer-client relationships, which ultimately result in better designs and smoother workflows.
