Design Contests - A Potential Horror for Graphic Artists?
In the bustling world of freelance design, the traditional approach of relying on design competitions might not always yield the best results. A shift in strategy, favouring the sale of products over participation in competitions, is being recommended by industry experts.
One of the primary reasons for this recommendation is the financial aspect. Real jobs typically pay more than design competitions, making them a more lucrative option for freelancers. However, this doesn't mean that design competitions should be entirely dismissed. Instead, designers who choose to participate should be strategic about their choices.
These designers select competitions that play to their strengths and offer pay-outs at or above market rates. They also tend to participate in competitions with fewer entrants, increasing their chances of winning. This strategy is particularly effective for those who specialise in a niche or have a particular expertise.
For instance, many successful designers use design competitions as a small but significant part of their business, focusing on prestigious awards like the Red Dot or iF Design Awards. These competitions not only offer the potential for financial gain but also provide recognition within their specialty.
However, it's crucial to remember that a freelancer's time is valuable, and it should not be wasted on minimal returns from competitions. Design competitions, such as those offered on platforms like 99Designs and Freelancer.com, can often be loaded against designers and in favour of brokers and clients. While these platforms do offer paying freelance work, the rewards from their design competitions are often described as pitiful.
So, what's the solution? Taking a course in telemarketing or face-to-face selling could be beneficial for freelancers looking to sell their products more effectively. This approach allows freelancers to take control of their earnings and build long-term, profitable relationships with clients.
In conclusion, while design competitions can be a part of a freelancer's business strategy, they should never be the sole focus. A balanced approach, combining strategic participation in competitions with proactive selling, could potentially improve earnings dramatically and lead to a more sustainable and successful freelance career.
