In my decade as a designer, I’ve heard more design horror stories than I can count.
I’ve even performed “facial reconstruction surgeries” on dozens of botched projects that went terribly wrong.
Now sometimes, yes, those disasters happen because the designer was a talentless prick. #sorrynotsorry
But most of the time? The project went sideways because the designer didn’t get enough context or feedback to make the design better.
If you’ve ever outsourced a design project and felt utterly underwhelmed by the first draft that landed in your inbox, this article is for you.
And listen, it happens. You’re allowed to throw yourself a little pity party (10 minutes max, ice cream optional). But then, instead of spiraling, here’s how to give feedback that actually transforms a disappointing first draft into a gorgeous second draft, Cinderella-style.
Tip #1: Be Visual
Do not — I repeat, do not — write a 14-paragraph email explaining your every design gripe in a stream-of-consciousness ramble. That’s a fast track to confusing yourself and your designer.
Instead, use a tool like Loom to record your screen as you talk through your feedback. This way, your designer can see exactly what you’re referencing.
When recording, make sure you:
- Point out what you don’t like about the design
- Explain why you don’t like it
- Use simple language (don’t try to speak “design-ese”)
Example of vague feedback:
“Can we do something about this thing? I don’t love it.”
Better feedback:
“This section feels crowded because the image placement is tight against the text. Can we adjust the spacing so it breathes a little more?”
Visual + clear always wins.
Tip #2: Be Specific
Before you sit down to record that Loom, take five minutes to review the designs and pinpoint exactly why something feels off. Specific feedback makes your designer’s job a thousand times easier.
Here’s what that looks like:
Example 1
- Observation: “I don’t like the placement of that image.”
- Why: “Because it makes the design feel crowded.”
- Specific feedback: “Is there a way to reposition this image so the layout feels more open?”
Example 2
- Observation: “This graphic looks busy.”
- Why: “There’s too much text and it’s hard to read.”
- Specific feedback: “I’ve provided shortened copy for this section. Can we rework the design with this version so it’s easier to digest?”
The key is to identify the problem and then let your designer use their toolbox of skills to solve it. You don’t need to propose a solution, that’s their job.
Tip #3: Be (Less) Emotional
If you’re like me, you pour your heart and soul into your work. That’s a good thing, it’s why clients love you. But when it comes to giving design feedback, emotions can sabotage the process.
When emotions creep in, here’s what happens:
- You procrastinate on giving feedback because your heart sinks every time you look at the draft.
- You fire off a snarky email you regret two seconds later.
- You get so discouraged you give up on the project altogether.
The result? Delayed projects, strained relationships, and wasted money.
If this sounds familiar, the first step is to take a breath and separate yourself from the disappointment. Objectively assess the work, find what’s off, and communicate clearly.
Because here’s the truth: you can’t apply Tips #1 and #2 if you’re stuck in your feelings.
And If All Else Fails…
Sometimes, no matter how much feedback you give, the project just isn’t working. At that point, it might be time to cut your losses and find a new designer.
Or here’s an easier option:
Use Digital Brand Kit templates and have your VA or in-house team customize them.
With DBK, the design is already done right. You just plug in your content, and you’ve got polished, on-brand assets you’ll actually love using.
So if you’re tired of botched projects and endless revision cycles, maybe it’s time to skip the drama and grab a system that’s built to work from day one.
