Designer Diplomacy

The graphic design industry can be extremely competitive, but here’s the truth: there’s nothing to gain from pettiness. I’ve inherited projects where the previous designer refused to share files or information, making everyone’s life difficult, and honestly? It just makes them look bad.

My policy is simple: if the work is paid for, it belongs to the client.

When I hand off project files to another designer, I provide organized files and editable formats where possible, accompanied by an open offer for them to reach out with questions or if anything’s missing. What goes around comes around in this business, and I’ve had former clients return years later specifically because they remembered how professionally I handled transitions. That, and they know I’m a digital pack rat! My archival process usually makes it easy for me to lay my mouse on files quickly, even from projects years back.

One thing I’ve learned: avoid sharing folders. If you change services or delete an account, clients may lose access to their own work. If you back up client files in the cloud (and you absolutely should), urge the client to download a full copy for their records.

Now, I’ve been on the receiving end of some truly chaotic project handoffs too. If you’re dealing with a situation where unpaid work is being requested and the client isn’t entitled to it, you can decline the request—boundaries matter. If you’re the designer requesting files and the former designer is unresponsive, you may have to get creative. Be upfront with your client about what it will cost to recreate the work from scratch, then check out my guide, the GetHipQuick Guide to Graphic Design for practical workarounds to navigate these types of issues.

My survival tip for messy handoffs? Deep breaths, document everything, and focus on solutions rather than placing blame. The design community is smaller than you think, and your reputation follows you. Choose professionalism every time—your future self will thank you.