How to Be a Freelance Product Designer
Product designers create a wide range of products for clients ranging from industrial to household products. Freelance product designers work independently on a contractual basis and enjoy the freedom of choosing design projects that suit their skill set while working on a flexible schedule. A product designer should have experience and the ability to produce a portfolio that can be used to promote her product-design service to potential clients
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Instructions
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Instructions
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Master the art of sketching designs and learn how to use a wide variety of design software. Computer Aided Design (CAD) software is a powerful design tool. However, the ability to first sketch the design idea on paper before applying it to a CAD program is an important part of the design process.
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Obtain a degree in product design. It comes in handy when promoting your freelance product-design services. Prospective clients will expect you to have a formal education or training in the design process.
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Get hands-on experience in designing actual products or product prototypes. You can gain experience by doing an internship with a design firm while you are still in college, or procure a job at a design company. The experience gained will build your resume and you can use your product designs for your portfolio.
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Compile a portfolio of all your product and product-prototype designs to show clients what you can do. Most clients will expect you to have a portfolio and will use it to determine if you are suitable for the job. Your portfolio will help you stand out from the other freelance product designers who may be vying for the same design project.
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Develop your design portfolio and expand your experience by competing in product-design competitions in your design field. Clients will be impressed by your participation in a design contest; it shows that you are competitive, hard working and innovative. All these qualities are vital to succeed as a freelance product designer.
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Promote your product-design services by creating a professional website where you can show clients your resume, portfolio and pictures of your work. A website will give you exposure and allows clients to find you. Create a Coroflot profile and use Carbonmade to promote your design services.
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Network with other product designers, firms, manufacturers, engineers and design groups. Building a list of contacts will increase your exposure and possibly create opportunities for word-of-mouth recommendations. Get a business card and share it with your contacts and colleagues.
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Be proactive and sell your design skills; demonstrate an excellent work ethic with clients that you already have. They are likely to offer you referrals or repeat business because of your outstanding work for them.
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Register and create a profile with online freelance design directories such as Freelance BBS and Freelance Designers. These sites can be used to advertise your design services and also help you to find freelance work from companies, firms or individuals looking for a product designer.
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References
Resources
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