Clients are always in need of something different each, from being obsessed with the value of money to constantly needing reassurance whilst even being suspicious of designers and the constant preaching of ‘the value of design’.
Clients can vary from ‘difficult’ to ‘easy’ clients, but similar rules always apply. We must realize an important fact: clients are not our enemy, even if they disagree with you strongly. At a lot of times clients do not understand what ‘design’ or ‘designers’ can do. They do not understand our creative process and work pattern, therefore communication is key to break these barriers. Always remember clients have clients of their own and need reassurance that they made the right choice of selecting you.
Here are 6 key elements when dealing with any Client:
Request for a design brief early in a project
When a client has selected you for a particular project always remember to ask for a very clear and specific brief that is understood and agreed by both parties. This is to avoid future miscommunication in the project. This is also to help you to understand what are the requirements and specifications that are highlighted on the project, which you can always refer back to.
Contract
A contract is an important element before actually starting on a project. Price, quotation agreement, terms and conditions must be rectified and agreed upon early. This is a practice considered to show professionalism and also helps protect designers from companies and vice versa and most importantly show TRUST. If a client in the beginning of the project is already unable to make the deposit of 25% or does not wish to use a contract for the project than you can clearly predict problems ahead.
Commitment
Always be committed, responsible and plan the time management of the project early so that you are able to always finish on time. Clients do not like procrastinators and like to constantly be updated about your development in the project. If you are unable to commit delivering a ‘quality’ piece of work on time due to too many projects on board then do not be selfish and take the project. Clients have clients of their own.
Communication
Always make it clear early when meeting clients for the first time inform them about your work patterns, terms and conditions in how you execute the projects. Different clients operate in different manners and might not always agree with your working methods and you should be targeting on a specific ‘niche’ market of your own. All designers should know communication is the most important key in dealing with clients as well with their work.
Professionalism
Other than managing your time and delivering on time, sometimes when put in any difficult or problematic situation when dealing a client, whether a client wishes to pay late or not agreeing to you sign your contract. Never be un-professional with dealings with clients. Even if the relationship of the client-designer has turned sour due to very strong disagreements do not act on emotion and worsen the situation by doing anything rash or saying anything you will regret. Word of mouth travels faster and better than anything and you could be known to be a ‘troublemaker’ to many companies. Also it is always best to remain calm and polite to clients to show that you are a professional.
Be honest with thy Clients
Be honest at all times when dealing with clients and companies. Clients too have feelings and a mind and they can generally understand, and could respect your integrity for it because they know you are 100% behind them in the project and it is always good to believe in the project and the Client.
