When you start out as a graphic designer it’s easy to become an order taker, to do exactly as the client asks. This can make you feel, and be treated like a puppet on a string. But how do you move away from that?

On this weeks podcast Ian interviews Colleen Gratzer to discover how you become the expert, allowing you to become the puppeteer. A designer who understands the why behind every project, who solves the problem, and is trusted by clients to provide the most effective solution.

In this episode we also discuss Brand Style Guidelines, to understand why you should provide one to your clients, what details should be included, and how to put one together.

Colleen Gratzer is the face behind Design Domination, a podcast and community for aspiring graphic designers. She also runs her own design practice, Gratzer Graphics, which she started back in 2003, so all advice she offers is very current, genuine and helpful.

• Brand Style Guide Template

I’m incredibly thankful to FreshBooks for sponsoring this episode of the Logo Geek Podcast! FreshBooks is an online accounting tool that makes it really easy to create and send invoices, track time and manage your money. You can try it out for yourself with a free 30 day trial.