Resourceful Designer offers content designed to help home-based graphic designers and web designers start, run and grow their design businesses.
Each episode, I share advice, tips and resources to help you with all aspects of running a successful graphic design business.
But who am I?
I’m Mark Des Cotes, a graphic designer and web designer. I’ve been designing for over 35 years, and I’ve been running my own successful graphic design business since 2005. I created Resourceful Designer to share some of the knowledge I’ve gained over the years. To learn more about me, please visit the About page.
Give Yourself A Raise: How to Make More Money Without More Clients – RD357
Give yourself a raise—without taking on more clients. By auditing your subscriptions, cleaning up unused tools, and spending smarter, you can give yourself a raise and keep more of your hard-earned income. Join me as I break down easy steps to boost your profits, simplify your workflow, and set your business up for lasting success.
How to Handle Low-Budget Clients with Grace – RD356
How to handle low-budget clients as a designer. Discover a proven email template, tips for protecting your worth, and how building bridges, rather than burning them, leads to better client relationships and long-term success.
Why Using “I” Instead of “We” Can Transform Your Design Business – RD355
Find out how using “I” instead of “we” when talking to clients can dramatically boost your design business. This simple shift creates stronger connections, increases client satisfaction, and improves your chances of landing new projects.
10 Things to Consider Before Raising Your Prices – RD354
Here are 10 essential things you should consider before raising your prices. If you’re feeling anxious about increasing your rates or just want to make smarter pricing decisions, this is the guide you need.
Networking for Introverted Designers – RD353
Join me as I reveal how being an introverted designer can actually be a networking superpower. Whether you dread networking or just want more authentic connections, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you thrive in the design industry.
5 Mistakes That Can Damage Your Design Career and How to Avoid Them – RD352
Here are five mistakes that can damage your design career. Join me as I offer practical advice and real-world stories to help you protect your reputation, boost your professionalism, and build a long-lasting design business.
The ROI of FREE: How Generosity Turns Into Profitable Design Relationships – RD351
what if I told you some of the highest returns I’ve received for my business came from work I intentionally gave away for free? Learn about the ROI of FREE.
Facing Impostor Syndrome: How Creatives Conquer Self-Doubt – RD350
We all face imposter syndrome as creative professionals. Let’s explore why even the most successful people often feel like frauds, and how designers can reframe those doubts to fuel growth and confidence.
How to Generate More Word of Mouth Referrals: The Five T’s That Will Transform Your Design Business – RD349
Let’s dive into practical strategies and real-life examples to help you generate more word of mouth referrals for your design business. Discover simple ways to build genuine client relationships, encourage sharing, and keep your business top of mind in your community.
The 4 Power Questions Every Designer Should Ask Clients (And Why They Matter)
Discover the four power questions every designer should ask clients, with real-world examples, practical tips, and how these questions can help you move from just a service provider to a true strategic partner in your design business.











