Should You Use a Rejected Corporate Logo Design for a New Project?

As designers, we create logos for various projects. While clients approve some designs, others wait to be picked. These rejected designs, in turn, can lead a designer to various types of dilemmas and problems.

Let us assume that you developed a corporate logo design, one that highlights your skills. Unfortunately, the client, for whom you created the design, rejected it. After few months, you find a client who offers a brief description of his requirement. Immediately, you realize that the previously rejected logo would meet requirement of this new client.

This situation lands you in a dilemma. You are aware of the fact that if you tell the truth to your client, chances are high that he will pay you a negligible amount. The client may argue that you did not research about his industry and target audience, and therefore, he will not pay you your usual fees.

On the other hand, you think that you have invested sufficient efforts (for a previous project) and deserve to receive the normal rates. You realize the fact that honesty may help you to earn appreciation from the client. However, it will not help you pay your bills. The problem lies in the fact that you want to be honest and acquire your usual fees at the same time.

Therefore, what should you do? We offer few tips that will help you to deal with the situation. You can choose any one of these or even combine few strategies:

• Logo design is a constantly evolving industry. Therefore, the design that you created few months ago, may not be suitable currently. To prevent suspicion of the client, evaluate the old design and make necessary changes

• It is true that you have not invested any effort for this particular project. Charging a client full amount, without researching about his/her industry and audience is ethically incorrect. Therefore, even if you think that the logo is perfect, you should evaluate it and make modifications, if required. This will allow you to stay true to yourself.

• If you want to be honest to the client, tell him that you already possess a design that fulfills his requirement. As mentioned earlier, the disadvantage of this option is that you may receive a negligible amount, despite investing efforts earlier. To protect your interest and retain your values, request the client for a security fee beforehand. This means that even if the client pays you a reduced amount, you will still manage to pay your bills.

We highlighted few strategies that will help you to deal with the situation. Opt for the one that helps you to maintain your values and protects your interest at the same time.