How To Deal With Unorganized Clients?

Having clients in the Graphic Design industry can be tricky when you have your first sit down with them. Most of the clients would tell you they don’t know what they want while others know and envision exactly what they want whether it is creatively correct for their brand or not. After all, you’re being hired to be a creative. When meeting with clients for the first of 50th time, be prepared and make them be aware they should be prepared as well so it would make their lives and yours easier. Here are some tips for you to have up your sleeve that work for meetings:

Study your client - Before taking on a project, you must understand where the client’s idea or need come from. Dig deep into the concept of their business and paint a visual mock-up picture of how your idea would look. If this doesn’t work, go back to the imaginary drawing board and present other ideas prior to taking time on an actual proof. Also, trust your gut when taking on a project. If the client doesn’t make you feel at ease from the minute you meet, this may not be a good client to have.

Explain the design process - In order to avoid misunderstandings or frustration with the design process, make sure you explain to your client that designing is a meticulous process where you sit down, doodle, erase, doodle some more, digitize and then present. The more you explain to your client about the design process, the more receptive they’re going to be and aware of where their project is at that point. Promising a 24 hour turn-around might turn into a lame design or an unhappy customer. 

Hold their hands - After all, you’re being hired to get creative. Sometimes your costumer lacks creativity, didn’t go to school for it or simply doesn’t have the time and would rather hire a professional to do the work. Remember they don’t understand CMYK, Bleeds or Illustrator slangs. Be patient and explain what approach they should take to make their design recognizable and create an impact. Familiarize them in order areas such as printing, marketing and web.

Friendly Reminders - Even unorganized clients are willing to send you all the information at the tip of their hands but sometimes their busy lifestyle would not permit 5 minutes of their time to sit down and get that info package you’ve waiting for the past 2 weeks. Be patient and send them polite e-mails to remind them you need the information in order to move forward with the project or the consequences it might face if they fail to deliver.

Stick to the contract - A contract is something you should always keep handy for clients to protect your interests and avoid being bullied by them. Not all clients are naive and innocent. On the other hand, this might put a serious perspective on the client for their own project. Sometimes the client would not take their own project seriously. Time is of the essence so by sticking to a well laid out contract this will help you get paid efficiently and on time.

On the other side of the stick, keep yourself organized, polite and professional at all times. The end result of a happy customer will be satisfying and will only result in referrals which are good for your pockets. Best of luck out there and go find those clients that fit your niche! 

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