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Graphic designers are visual artists who often work closely with marketers and other clients. These types of artists often rely on computer software, although some work is still done by hand. If you’re lucky enough to have received an interview confirmation, your immediate next step should be to spend time preparing for the interview.
Review and practice a range of questions, including the basics you know are likely to pop up no matter what job you’re applying for. Whether you’re seeking a position at a new company or partaking in an internal interview, you can use this list of common designer interview questions and answers to prepare.
Key Takeaways:
As a candidate, prepare to answer questions covering your communication skills as well as your technical design skills.
As an interviewer, ask questions about candidates' ability to accept criticism and feedback.
Below are some sample interview questions and answers for a designer:
What qualities and skills do you think are most important for a graphic designer to have? Your answer needs to dive deeper than simply saying “be creative.” In many ways, a good designer goes well beyond being an artist and having a good eye. Designers are visual communicators, problem solvers, and marketers.
Example Answer:
In addition to having strong technical and artistic skills, a designer should be great at communicating. Our role isn’t just to make an attractive email or design a pretty logo; we’re responsible for communicating a brand’s vision in a clear, concise, but aesthetically pleasing way. This requires a good grasp of successful marketing practices and problem-solving skills to ensure we are representing the correct vision and information for a brand.
Tell me about the final submission process. How do you work with collaborators? Graphic designers interact with multiple collaborators on every project. This can include the client, project manager, copywriters, developers, and sometimes printers or other artists, depending on the medium.
Example Answer:
My primary goal is to make the client happy. I’m always open to feedback and like to remain communicative throughout the process to change gears and redirect the project if we’re not on track to meet the client’s needs. I’m very comfortable collaborating with in-house and outside teams on a project. I understand the best outbound file types for deliverables based on viewing and printing needs for clients. I take every step possible to ensure a smooth hand-off at the end of a project. I’ve found that regular communication is the best way to make sure that happens.
Tell me about a time you received criticism regarding your work. It’s impossible to make every single client happy every single time.
A hiring manager is just as interested in your weaknesses as your strengths, as both can be very telling about who you are and how you work. This type of communication interview question tests how effectively you could communicate and adapt in the face of negativity.
Example Answer:
I had an extremely difficult client who didn’t seem happy with anything I produced. They were constantly changing the messaging and even the look and feel of their email campaigns, so nothing was consistent. I learned that the company was going through a growth spurt and was in the middle of a rough transition with new leadership in marketing.
After speaking with my project manager, I created a marketing proposal for the company’s emails using a set color scheme and cohesive imagery, then presented it to my primary contact at the company and explained the importance of a unified brand identity. They made a few tweaks to my samples but agreed that we could move forward with the design elements I had shown them.
Once we were on the same page, they were much happier with my deliverables and had very few edits. I noticed that they started to incorporate my color scheme on their website and social media pages. Even though I took on an extra, unplanned project when I created the proposal, it was immensely helpful in the long run and saved me a lot of time on future projects, plus we turned a frustrated client into a satisfied one.
Describe the main steps in your creative process. If you claim that you just jump right into a project and start designing without a plan, a hiring manager will immediately peg you as an amateur.
Instead, you should take a logical, systematic approach that stresses understanding your client’s needs. This question will reveal a lot about your work ethic.
Example Answer:
I look at every proposal as a problem to be solved. I consider what message is trying to be conveyed and how it can be visualized in line with its identity. Sometimes that involves research on similar marketing campaigns for other companies or a dive into a new client’s current assets, too, so I can see how they represent themselves.
I like to make mood boards to review the type of imagery, graphic elements, and color schemes I’m planning to incorporate, and for new clients, I often send them quick thumbnail sketches of my ideas to get their feedback early on in the process. I regularly touch base with a project manager throughout the process to make sure I’m on track to meet deadlines.
How do you handle high levels of stress to meet tight deadlines? Some people work well under pressure, but others don’t. If you fall into the latter category, don’t lie. Instead, explain the coping techniques you use when you find yourself in stressful situations.
Example Answer:
I used to have a hard time dealing with stressful deadlines. I would get overwhelmed and start panicking, which led to errors. Once I identified this weakness, I started taking steps to react more efficiently in these circumstances.
I found that prioritizing my tasks and making a checklist drastically helped me stay focused to see what still needed to be done and estimate how much time it would take. It also helped me make sure I didn’t miss any important steps.
I’m generally very self-sufficient and rarely need to ask for help, but if I’m in over my head, I’m not afraid to reach out and request assistance.
How do you define success when working with clients? Success is objective, but by revealing your metrics for defining and measuring success, a hiring manager can gain valuable insight into your priorities and overall mindset.
Example Answer:
If the client is happy, I feel like the job was successful. There have been a few instances where I wasn’t pleased with the final project, but it was exactly what the client wanted, and at the end of the day, it’s the client’s needs that have to be fulfilled, not mine. I would rather be a little disappointed in the project but see a happy client rather than producing a design that I’m immensely proud of to a dissatisfied client who never wants to work with us again.
Whenever possible, I like to have access to metrics such as conversion rates, user feedback, and click-throughs to gauge how well the content performs. As far as my success, meeting goals and overcoming challenges are what motivate me. When I can look back and reflect on my personal and professional growth, I feel that I’m successful.
How do you feel about working remotely? While this question wasn’t nearly as common pre-COVID, it has become much more frequent nowadays, especially in professions where working from home is a viable option that doesn’t cause much disruption in the process compared to working in the office.
Your answer will reveal your work style, so be sure to mention the importance of organization, accountability, and regular communication.
Example Answer:
I’ve been working remotely from home for over a year now, and I’ve found that the lifestyle change suits me well. I was easily distracted in the office when people were constantly walking past my desk and talking, but at home, I can close myself in my office and focus without those interruptions.
I rely heavily on Microsoft Teams and Zoom in addition to email, so I can remain in touch and communicate regularly with clients, project managers, and any other collaborators involved in a project. Whether I’m in the office or at home, I’m very organized and like to schedule my tasks for the day and week to stay accountable and meet my deadlines.
How would you respond if a client were to give you harsh criticism? Designers often put their heart and soul into their creative work, so it’s no fun to have someone criticize you. However, demonstrating an open mind and willingness to compromise will show that you’re a team player ready to incorporate feedback and succeed at meeting a client’s expectations.
Example Answer:
I’ve learned not to take criticism personally, although that was a hard lesson when I was first starting in this industry. I’m passionate about my work, but clients are equally passionate about representing their brands, and I have to respect that. I think regular communication throughout a project can help alleviate a harsh rejection toward the end of the project. I’m very open to constructive feedback given politely. Harsh criticism is a much harder pill to swallow.
Still, I’m able to keep my temper and ego in check and remain calm as I actively listen and have a civilized discussion about exactly what the client dislikes so I can revisit my overall design and make changes accordingly. My most important goal is to produce the best result that will satisfy the client’s needs.
How do you stay up to date on the latest design trends? The industry is ever in flux, which means designers are expected to keep up with the changing trends if they’re going to make sure their designs are fresh and relevant.
Proving that you’re current can give you a winning edge over competitors who haven’t kept up with the latest trends.
Example Answer:
I follow a handful of my favorite designers and brands on Instagram to see what they’re doing and how engaged their followers are. I also networked with other graphic designers on LinkedIn and joined a regional group that meets every couple of months to connect and talk about what’s new. In my spare time after work, I like to flip through three different art magazines I’m subscribed to.
What is color theory? Is it important in graphic design? If a hiring manager asks you a fundamental question and then asks if it’s important to your profession, you can pretty much bet the correct answer to the second question will be yes. This type of question is testing to see if you have a grasp of the basics.
Example Answer:
Color theory is very important in graphic design. It’s the art and science of how different colors complement, contrast, and interact with each other. Color is a critical aspect in just about every element of a project, whether it’s fonts, logos, or identifying prominent colors in photographs to complement models and products. In addition to establishing a strong and cohesive brand identity, color can also convey emotion.
For example, I had a client last year who wanted to create a logo and brand identity for a new sports drink. I recommended using a simple logo with bold black outlines and vibrant orange to emanate excitement and energy.
Walk me through your portfolio and tell me about your favorite design piece. Even if you have a resume website with your digital archive of projects, you should also have a print portfolio with a creative resume for the interview.
Portfolios are still standard for any type of job with visual deliverables so that you can showcase your work. Have a few of your favorite projects in mind so you can talk about them if given the invitation to do so.
Example Answer:
This email campaign for a flash sale promotion is one that I’m most proud of. Before creating the design, I analyzed the data from earlier sales and learned that this flash sale had been run multiple times with an average 3% conversion rate. I did a complete overhaul of the messaging to make it simpler for customers to understand. Then I designed the new campaign to feature bold, exciting graphics with diverse models, something the old campaigns sorely lacked.
Even though it was the same deal, the conversion rate for the new campaign increased by a whopping 240%. The client was ecstatic, and I was thrilled with the results and overall design. Since this campaign, the company started adopting some of my graphic design elements into their overall brand identity and reported that their sales and engagement continue to increase.
Are you comfortable using the design programs we specified in our job description? This question is two for one. The hiring manager tests your technical skills for specific design software while also probing to see if you read and retain the information posted in the job description.
Tip: read the job description before the interview. It will save you a lot of stress and discomfort with some of the basic interview questions. There’s nothing quite as awkward as being forced to admit that you didn’t read the job description.
Example Answer:
Yes, I’m very comfortable using the Adobe Creative Suite and am particularly experienced using Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, and Acrobat. I’m also knowledgeable with website platforms such as Shopify and WordPress and email campaign platforms like Klaviyo. In my previous position, I primarily used Adobe Illustrator to design company logos and InDesign for layout projects and marketing materials, including posters, magazine ads, and brochures.
When did you realize you wanted to become a graphic designer? This question isn’t meant to test your current abilities. Rather, it’s exploring the foundation of your career, motivation, and professional goals.
Example Answer:
I’ve always considered myself an artist ever since I was a little kid, but I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with those artistic skills until high school when I took a business class. Part of our group project involved creating a company and designing a logo. That was the moment it finally clicked for me, and I decided I wanted to pursue graphic design.
Do you work best alone or in a group? Most of your work will likely be solo, although you will be expected to communicate with others and possibly collaborate in a group frequently. Honesty is the best policy so that a manager knows your strengths.
Example Answer:
When there’s a deadline, I usually prefer to work alone so I can hold myself accountable and not stress about others potentially running behind schedule. But I do enjoy collaborating in a group at the beginning of a new project. I’ve found that I have some of my best ideas in those types of situations.
Where do you see yourself in five years? This question allows a potential employer to gauge your long-term career goals. It costs a lot of money, time, and resources to hire a new employee, so they want to ensure they’re making a worthwhile investment in you.
Answering this question correctly can help you stand apart from other candidates who are less focused and motivated.
Example Answer:
Right now, my main goal is to work in a company with a flourishing culture filled with talented people I can learn from and be inspired by. I hope to be part of many different projects to keep variety and excitement in my work. Over the next few years, my goal is to take on more responsibility and work my way into a project manager position.
Tell me about yourself.
This is a common question interviewers ask to get an idea of what sets you apart as a candidate. When you answer, give a brief overview of your work experience as well as your top skills and interests that match the role's requirements.
Example Answer:
I'm a designer with six years of experience, and I'm passionate about creating meaningful, useful, and visually appealing designs. I've become adept at designing web pages and email templates, as well as print materials.
I love collaborating with cross-functional teams and translating client requirements into excellent design that blends functionality with creativity. I'm excited about this opportunity to contribute to your organization's success.
Why should we hire you?
This question can feel uncomfortable to answer, but lean into it. Simply explain why your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for this role and what you'd bring to it.
Example Answer:
You should hire me because my background in creating user-centric designs and effectively translating client needs into visually engaging designs will fit well with this role's client-facing needs. My ability to communicate effectively, work with cross-functional teams, and adapt quickly to trends will also allow me to further your organization's mission.
Why do you want to work here?
Companies want to hire people who want to work for them, so be ready to talk about your motivation for applying to this job. Prepare for this question by researching the company's culture, mission, and vision so you can talk about how that aligns with your own values and interests.
Example Answer:
I want to work here because I've long admired your company's commitment to design excellence and user experience. I'm passionate about not making a good design just for design's sake, but so that it makes a product or website more usable. I'd love to be able to use my skills to further your organization in this way.
What is your greatest strength?
Answering this question may feel like bragging on yourself, and that's okay. Employers want to know what makes you great, so tell them. Just be factual and stick to strengths that relate to the job description as much as possible.
Example Answer:
My greatest strength as a designer is in interpreting client requirements. I've learned which questions to ask in order to find out what they're actually looking for, and while I do still often need to make adjustments after my first mock-up, they're usually minimal.
What is your greatest weakness?
Believe it or not, this isn't a trick question. Interviewers know you have weaknesses and just want to see that you're self-aware and intentional about working on them. So, when you answer, spend most of your time explaining what you do to overcome your weakness.
Example Answer:
My greatest weakness is that I can become so invested in the details of my work that I sacrifice efficiency. While I want to make sure I'm always producing excellent work, I've learned that there needs to be a balance in order to get everything done on time. I've been working on striking this balance in my design process by being more intentional with time management and task prioritization.
Describe your design process from initial concept to final product.
How do you approach understanding a client's design requirements and translating them into a visual representation?
Can you share an example of a project where you faced design challenges and how you overcame them?
How do you incorporate user feedback and iterate on your designs?
Tell us about a time when you had to balance creativity with meeting project deadlines. How did you manage it?
How do you stay organized and manage multiple design projects simultaneously?
Explain your experience working with cross-functional teams, such as developers or marketers.
How do you ensure that your designs are accessible and inclusive to all users?
Can you provide an example of a project where you had to collaborate with stakeholders who had different design preferences or visions?
What steps do you take to keep yourself inspired and motivated in your design work?
Describe a situation where you had to compromise on a design decision. How did you handle it?
How do you approach design critiques and feedback from colleagues or clients?
Can you share a project where you had to think outside the box and come up with a unique solution?
How do you approach designing for different platforms or mediums, such as web, mobile, or print?
How do you incorporate branding guidelines into your designs while still maintaining creativity and innovation?
Tell us about a project where you had to work within tight budget constraints. How did you manage to deliver high-quality design despite the limitations?
Describe a time when you had to present and defend your design choices to a non-design audience. How did you communicate your ideas effectively?
Where do you see the future of design heading, and how do you plan to adapt and grow in your career?
As a Candidate:
Prepare to talk about your communication skills. Designers need to know how to communicate effectively with clients, peers, and cross-functional teams, so prepare to highlight your abilities and experience in this area.
Brush up on your technical skills. If you listed a design software on your resume that you haven't used in a while, take some time to refamiliarize yourself with it. You'll likely to encounter questions about using these programs and may even be asked to use them in your interview, so it's best to be prepared.
Think of anecdotes about working with difficult clients. You need to be prepared to answer designer behavioral interview questions about how you handle criticism or difficult clients, so have some stories ready to go.
As an Interviewer:
Assess candidates' communication skills. Effective designers need to be able to listen and communicate well with clients and coworkers. Make sure your list of questions to ask in a design interview includes plenty on this topic.
Gauge candidates' ability to accept criticism. Whether from clients or coworkers, designers need to be able to accept feedback and criticism with professionalism and poise. Ask behavioral interview questions that touch on this to see if the candidate can handle these interactions.
Evaluate candidates' technical skills. Not all interview questions for a designer need to be theoretical. You can ask candidates to walk you through the processes behind their portfolio pieces or even have them use design software during the interview.