Working with Clients: What I’ve Learned (So Far)
- Emily Palmer
- Jul 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 5
Since working with a range of clients I have certainly learnt a lot and here are five of the lessons.
Clients will take their time.
Sometimes clients are on the ball and respond rather quickly which is fantastic! Yet, other times clients will take a little longer that you hope to finalise projects or get back to you. From this, I have found that it is important to figure out a healthy way to catch up with them to make sure that they are keeping you in the loop and keep the ball rolling. If you find that your client is slow in response, notice this and up your game with your time management to speed things up. In addition, ensure that you have excellent communication skills to ensure that you are pulling your weight in the project.
It’s the work that they are after, not yourselves.
As harsh as this sounds, more than likely it is true! This doesn't mean you should lack professionalism, character or enthusiasm, remain yourself yet remember that nothing is personal because at the end of the day, they are paying you for a project not for being a friend.
Clients can be easy peasy!
On the other hand, clients do sometimes just let you crack on and agree with your design decisions, for after all you have the eye. This always seems to be too good to be true but I am not complaining.
Making sure everything is documented.
When working on projects for clients, it is important to keep up to speed and know the project inside and out. This is beneficial if you receive a last minute video call, then you can quickly overview the project so far. I do believe keeping as organised as possible will massively benefit your success.
Transparency builds trust.
This one is a common lesson and so it should be as it is important. At the end of your project, you want to either be recommended by you client or hired for future work so make sure you are as transparent as possible with them and form a great relationship. In addition, the more trust that you receive from your client, the more likely they are to let you take the lead with projects which can be really fun.
Emily
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