How to 3x the Value of Your Next 99design Contest

3 min read

How to 3x the Value of Your Next 99design Contest

Ever felt like you're juggling a dozen tasks at once, with no extra hands to help? As a small business owner, I've been there. For over a decade, I've bootstrapped my way through challenges, often finding myself alone in the trenches. When funds are tight, hiring a consulting firm or an agency isn't an option. It's just you, your vision, and the drive to make things happen.

A significant part of my entrepreneurial journey has been navigating the world of design. Whether it's crafting a website, creating a logo, or designing packaging, every business—big or small—needs stellar design work. But how do you achieve that without breaking the bank?

Why 99designs is a Game-Changer

Enter 99designs. I've been a fan for years because it offers more than just hiring a single designer or agency. It opens up a world of creativity by allowing designers globally to compete for your project. You simply specify the type of design you need, set a prize, and watch as designers from around the world submit their unique creations.

The Pros and Cons of 99designs

Pros:
- Relatively cheap for a mockup
- Wide array of artistic styles

Cons:
- Most design submissions are less than stellar
- Requires time to manage a contest

How to Maximize Your Design Submissions

Here's a little secret: when you create a contest, 99designs allows you to invite other designers. I discovered that sending a personalized message to multiple designers can significantly increase the number of submissions.

Here's a template I use: "Hey, I was looking at your profile and I think you have some really amazing work. I recently launched a contest about redesigning our website for a support company. I'd be ecstatic if you'd be able to spend some time and submit a design for the contest. Thanks for your time, I look forward to seeing your entry. :)"

This simple message can triple your submissions. Make it a daily task or have an assistant send these messages. Either way, you'll see a noticeable difference.

Final Thoughts

Design can be the face of your business. By maximizing the potential of platforms like 99designs, you not only save money but also gain access to a diverse pool of talent. Ready to see what creativity awaits? Dive in and start your next contest. For more tips on boosting productivity, check out my post on productivity hacks or learn how to conduct an annual life review.