5 Common Mistakes New Designers Make with client work (and How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)
“ Look, nobody starts out as a design genius who has it all figured out. We’ve all made at least one (or, let’s be real, all) of these mistakes. “
So, you've decided to dive into the world of design, exciting, right? You’ve got the creative skills, the fancy software, and a burning passion to make things look amazing. But hold up! Before you go all-in, let’s talk about some common mistakes that can trip up new designers (yep, even the super talented ones).
Avoid these, and you’ll be on your way to looking like a seasoned pro in no time.
1. Skipping the Contract (AKA, Asking for Trouble)
One of the biggest mistakes new designers make? Not having a contract. I get it, you’re excited to start, the client seems cool, and you don’t want to seem pushy by talking about paperwork. But trust me, a contract is your best friend.
Without one, you could end up working for free (ouch), dealing with never-ending revisions (double ouch), or losing rights to your own work (nope).
How to avoid this:
Always, always have a contract in place before starting a project. It should cover the project scope, payment terms, deadlines, and ownership rights.
Not sure where to start? There are plenty of freelance contract templates online, customize one to fit your needs!
2. Not Taking a Deposit (Because “Trust Me, Bro” Doesn’t Pay the Bills)
Picture this: You pour your heart into a project, spend hours crafting the perfect design, send it off to the client… and then… radio silence. Or worse, they suddenly disappear when it’s time to pay.
This is why taking a deposit is non-negotiable. It ensures you’re not working for free and that the client is actually committed.
How to avoid this:
Require a 30–50% deposit before you start any work. No deposit, no design, it’s that simple.
Use online invoicing tools like PayPal.
3. Not Setting Revision Limits (AKA, Unlimited Free Work Trap)
Ever had a client who keeps asking for just one more little tweak? And then another… and another… until suddenly, you’re on revision #15 and your original design looks nothing like what you started with?
Without clear revision limits, you’re opening the door to scope creep (where clients keep asking for more and more changes without extra pay).
How to avoid this:
Be crystal clear in your contract: "This project includes [X] rounds of revisions. Additional revisions will be billed at [rate]."
Gently remind clients when they’re out of free revisions—most will understand and respect your time.
4. Underpricing Your Work (Because You’re Worth More Than Exposure)
New designers often set their prices way too low because they think they need to in order to get work. But here’s the thing, if you charge bargain prices, clients will treat you like a bargain designer.
Not only does this lead to burnout, but it also makes it harder to raise your rates later.
How to avoid this:
Research industry-standard pricing and charge what your work is actually worth (not what you think people will pay).
Factor in time, experience, and usage rights when setting your rates.
5. Not Communicating Extra Fees Upfront (Surprise Charges = Angry Clients)
Ever had a client ask for extra services mid-project, and you think, Sure, I’ll do it, but I’ll charge them later? Then, when you send the final invoice, they’re shocked by the additional fees? Yeah… not fun.
How to avoid this:
Be upfront about what’s included in your pricing and what costs extra.
If a client requests something outside the original scope, let them know before you do the work and confirm any additional charges.
Final Thoughts
Look, nobody starts out as a design genius who has it all figured out. We’ve all made at least one (or, let’s be real, all) of these mistakes. But the good news? Now you know better! With a solid contract, clear boundaries, and the confidence to charge what you're worth, you'll be way ahead of the game.
So go forth, design like a boss, and remember—no contract, no deposit, no design!
