I’m offering tips from time to time, from a book designer’s perspective, on how to get the creative best out of creatives. Again a disclaimer: None of this is meant to suggest that you have to be extra careful around artist-types and only approach them in certain ways. If you run into a prima donna book designer who seems to be there to serve himself and not you, find a new one. Most of us have learned to be flexible and accommodating to a wide variety of art directors and clients. If you’re new at this, not to worry. You’re absolutely welcomed here on BelieversPress… don’t feel intimidated. There are some keys to your designer’s psyche and working style, however, that will keep him designing more efficiently and giving you his absolute best. Here are a couple more… 1. Establish clear deadlines for each phase of the cover design project. Whatever level of design service you choose on Believer’s Press, spelled out there is a list of project stages: Concepts, Revisions, Final Design, Files delivered to printer. It’s a good idea to work backward from that final printer deadline and pin your designer down to a date for each stage. Creatives have sort of a love/hate relationship with deadlines. We hate the pressure and yet thrive on it somehow, and you certainly need to be confident that your project is moving along as it should. Your designer will probably initiate the calendar discussion, but be sure you’re both on the same page. 2. Get objective feedback at the concept stage. Particularly if your design package provides you with multiple concepts, show them to family and friends but also to people who know nothing about the book project.  Some good questions to start with:

• First impression—which one appeals to you more than the others?
• What do you think this book is about?
• Do any of these remind you of anything—good, bad or indifferent?
• Who do you think this book is for—men, women, children, etc.?

From a broad enough objective sampling you will gain invaluable insight that can be passed along to your designer. You know which option you like best, but responses from others just might surprise you! A good designer needs and welcomes this sort of feedback and is eager to respond. 3. Get some “feedback” from your designer. You might ask him which of the concepts he likes best and what his reasons were for each approach. Let him “sell” his ideas a bit, incorporate the other feedback you’re getting, then make your choice. Happy publishing! Previously: How to Get The Best (and Your Money’s Worth) Out of Your Cover Designer- Part I