To all you graphic designers / illustrators out there...

At a guess, I reckon ALL the designers on here have been 'challenged' to do a job for free at some point or another, probably several times over.

I know you're offering your services in return, but I don't think that's gonna reel in the creative fishies.

Jaded designers want cold cash for their services, or it's no dice.

You're probably right but it's a pity. I remember it well myself in fact as I started out as an art director 18 years ago now before becoming a copywriter some 14 years ago. The company I want to set up will be providing written content, however it's highly likely that clients will also require design services and if I were to build up a relationship with a good designer or two from here it would be an obvious choice which direction I'd point my clients in. As well as the offer of my services of course, which would strengthen the offering of any designer/art director.

Still, perhaps this isn't the right place to look. I just thought that with apparently so many designers on this site that one or two might see the benefit and have enough free time to give it a go.