7 guidelines for managing client expectations

Lucidpress
Jul 26, 2017 · 4 min read
Guest post contributed by Rachel McPherson

Managing a client’s expectations is not an easy task, especially if you are a designer. As much as you want to keep clients happy and live up to their expectations, things don’t always go according to plan.

While designers rely on their creativity to deliver great results, clients sometimes undervalue the effort or attempt to control the process. It’s a cycle that can make even the most ambitious projects crumble in a matter of seconds. This is why maintaining good rapport with clients is instrumental to a project’s success. Although there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, we have some ground rules that can help you manage client expectations and take your collaboration to a whole new level.

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1. Communicate your ideas clearly

2. Set clear boundaries

While it’s perfectly normal to listen to your client’s feedback and answer their needs and requirements, falling into a never-ending cycle of revisions will not have a positive effect on the project — or your relationship. To avoid this scenario, set clear boundaries; be transparent about what you can achieve and how much time you can dedicate to revisions. Otherwise, the client might undervalue your knowledge and skills and eventually stop trusting you.

3. Define your communication channels

4. Identify your key contacts

5. State your payment terms

6. Make it personal

7. Have a detailed contract

  • Expected working hours
  • Procedure for feedback & revisions
  • Project milestones
  • Budget & payment

Keep in mind that besides delivering a contract to your client, you must carefully review it with them to make sure they understand and agree to all the details.

The best projects are a result of clients and designers working together to achieve a common goal, and the expectations you set will influence how the project’s success is perceived. By following these 7 guidelines, you’ll create a respectful, collaborative environment that will encourage everyone to do great work together.

About Rachel McPherson


Originally published at www.lucidpress.com.

Lucidpress

The intuitive design & brand management platform that makes it easy to create & share beautifully branded collateral. Issues? Email support@lucidpress.com.

Lucidpress

Written by

The intuitive design & brand management platform that makes it easy to create & share beautifully branded collateral. Issues? Email support@lucidpress.com.

Lucidpress

The intuitive design & brand management platform that makes it easy to create & share beautifully branded collateral. Issues? Email support@lucidpress.com.

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