I think being a designer you would have to look at things at a few perspectives.
based on the assumption that you are a freelance designer
- Does he want something you have to offer?(This is generally where designers go seeking potential clients, or clients, or competitors testing the market with no clear intention for contractual obligation)
- What is your client's budget and expectation of a design?
- Are you well known? You must understand that generally clients are not design savvy and wouldnt know if you are well known within designers circle. You must be well known beyond that.
- Your Charms. (This is a very important trait as sometimes the client would give you the job even if you are not what he expect)
based on the assumption that you are seeking employment.
- What are your experiences? (This plays a major role as they would probably want to see your portfolio unless you're so famous)
- What do you expect for a salary?
- What is your demand level in the market(how much competitors would want to hire you)
- Do you satisfy their criteria?(Very general)
- Your potential being in the firm for a long period of time or a short one.(Some firms prefer short ones as the cost of hiring you would be exponential if lets say you stay there til you retire in 30 years for a young designer*highly unlikely but occasionally happens provided the firm last that long*)
- The cost/benefit ratio(Normally, the employers who personally interviewed you would calculate this)
Finally your expectations as a designer
- What do you want as a basic salary?
- What are the increments like?
- What are the remunerations like?
- Would the company be able to help you gain enough experiences for your future undertaking?(Applies for young designers)
- How is the work load? (Some company pays you well but the workload is.....*speechless*)
above are generally it. There might specifically be more to the general criteria but I shall leave it for you guys/gals to figure out.