Posted by admin | Posted in Graphic Design | Posted on 26-06-2008
Often times, pleasing the client and still having a product that we like as a designer, is a unsurmountable task. It seems impossible. You supply the original concepts, then they want to mix and match. As a designer, you are trained to know what you don’t want to put together, but they don’t have the training or expertise that you do.
This puts you between a rock and a hard place. Or does it? The way I look at it, regardless of my "emotional" response at the time, the client is "always right’. Yep. Even when they’re wrong.
However, what I do is make sure I have a solid contract so that they understand that excessive changes or unending projects don’t happen without a price!
On the emotional level, I keep it before me, that if the client is paying for the project, then they are my art director. I follow their instruction and give my opinions when requested.
My advice to you? Don’t allow it to become personal. A client’s change is not a reflection on your work, your design or you as a human being. If you are asked to do something against your better "design judgement", smile as you accept payment from the pleased customer and just don’t include their piece in your portfolio!
Keep up the good work!
[...] 6. Be flexible. You’re an expert. However, you can’t underestimate the importance of customer service. Face it, the client is always right — even if his taste is horrific. Do your best to satisfy the client, because the client’s satisfaction will further your career. (Need a pep talk? Read this freelancer’s bits of wisdom.) [...]