I have an associate's in graphic design (currently working on a bachelor's in digital media), and I interviewed back in the fall for a position as a design intern with a company in my area that makes cabinetry for the medical industry.
I didn't get hired, but the other day the company's marketing director sent me an email asking if I'd like to do some contract work on a postcard project beginning next month.
I was hoping for advice pertaining specifically to what sort of rates I should charge, although I'm sure I'll have more questions as I proceed with the project. This is my first professional work in the design field since I graduated in the spring, and I'm really grateful that they're giving me this opportunity. I just don't want to let them down.
Obtain a business license if required in your state.
Buy a file organizer to keep track of your invoices and receipts.
Buy a briefcase or folio to transport documents.
Take charge of the design process from the very beginning; do not allow your client to bully you or tell you how to do your business.
You are there because you know more about graphic design than they do.
Freelancing usually involves selling yourself, and obtaining referrals from satisfied clients that trust and respect you.
Schedule a meeting with your client.
Take complete notes and get all of the information regarding the project. (deadline, quantity of postcards, size of postcards, mailing list, etc...)
Advise your client to submit only finalized copy, images and graphics.
Changes to submitted material is billable.
Also, it is a very good idea to explain to your client exactly what type of digital formats are acceptable for text, photos and graphics submissions.
Remind them not to attempt to format text submissions; it usually results in a lot of extra work for the designer.
Create a "design brief" from your notes, outlining in detail your understanding of the project, your responsibilities, the client's responsibilities, determine the person you will be working with (a camel is a horse designed by a committee), and the terms of payment.
This document should be revised until it is correct and complete.
Your client will sign the design brief before any work is done.
The design brief is likely to be the first example of your work a client will see; make sure it looks good.
It also constitutes a contract for your services.
Communicate with your client on a regular basis.
Do not show your client a concept you are not willing to live with.
Have your client sign and approve the color proofs prior to production.
BTW, Printing and bindery services are often brokered by the designer, and this can be an excellent source of revenue if you establish accounts directly with commercial vendors. (as opposed to Kinko's or some other retailer)
4over.com is a good place to start.
This is one of the best overall 4-color printing services I've tried in the past ten years.
