5 steps to charge more and work faster as a designer

Why do I work so hard but still can't charge more?

Have you ever wondered why most designers make their design process too complicated? Regardless of the steps, my main question is: even if you have too many steps or a complex process, is it helping you work faster and earn more?

If not, you're definitely not alone.

I totally get it. We try different approaches to create the best designs, but sometimes we overcomplicate things. Let's first understand why this happens, and then I'll show you my five steps to a smoother workflow.

Why designers overcomplicate things

When I started, I thought more steps meant better work. So I created elaborate systems. More revisions, more research, more everything.

All of this led to more hours spent but not more money earned.

Here's the truth: a simpler process doesn't mean lower quality. It means you're smarter about where you spend your energy.

Most designers make three mistakes:

• Too many revision rounds
• Doing tasks the client should handle
• Not having a clear workflow

Sound familiar? Here's how to fix it.

Step 1: Audit your current process

Write down every single step you take from the moment a client reaches out to the moment you deliver the final files.

You'll probably find steps that don't add value. Cut them.

When I did this, I realized I was spending 3 hours on mood boards no client ever looked at. Gone.

Step 2: Set boundaries early

Before you start any project, make sure the client knows:

• How many revisions are included
• What's in scope and what's not
• Your timeline and availability

This saves you from endless back and forth later.

Step 3: Use templates

Stop designing from scratch every time. Build a library of components, layouts, and assets you can reuse.

I have a Figma library with buttons, headers, footers, and sections I use across projects. It cuts my design time in half.

Step 4: Batch your work

Don't jump between tasks. Group similar work together.

Monday: all client calls. Tuesday–Wednesday: deep design work. Thursday: revisions. Friday: admin and invoicing.

When you batch, you get into flow faster and produce better work.

Step 5: Raise your prices

This might sound counterintuitive, but when you charge more, you attract clients who respect your time. You work on fewer projects but earn the same or more.

If you're still undercharging, it's not because clients won't pay more.

Bottom line

A simplified process = faster delivery = more money.

You don't need to work harder. You need to work smarter. Cut what doesn't matter. Protect your time. And charge what you're worth.

That's the game.