Like anyone else, I’m looking for love. As an independent designer, I write proposals, speak at conferences, go on business-development trips, and the scariest task of all: meeting new prospective clients. In the beginning, the “getting to know you” stage is a lot like dating. A friend may introduce you – maybe you meet on a plane and you give out your card (i.e. phone number). You talk on the phone, you meet in person (have your first date), and flirt with the idea of working together. You think they like you. But how do you know if they’re right for you? Here are some things to be on the lookout for before you say “I do” to the design:
Good Communication. Most of the time people are just busy when they don’t call or email you back right away. However, waiting a week or longer for a response could mean you’ll be spending a lot of frustrating time waiting for answers – and waiting to move forward. Make your expectations known at the beginning. If you want to touch base once each week, set up a regular schedule, if possible.
Compatibility. Do your values align? Don’t sell yourself short and work on something you don’t believe in. Stay true to who you ultimately are to avoid resentment and guilt; and so you feel proud of the project the whole way through. In this industry, a job is never “just a job.”
Trust. What is the company’s reputation as a business and how have they treated consultants in the past? Do they pay invoices on time? Break contracts? Knowing their record ahead of time could save you some heartbreak down the road.
Accessibility. Is a long-distance relationship for you? Some designers and retailers prefer face-to-face meetings and working in close proximity. Find out their travel expectations before you jump in.
Authenticity. If they’re asking you to do something beyond your abilities, just say no. You want them to fall in love with the real you. Taking on a challenge is one thing, but saying you’re an electrician when you’re not only sets you up to be dumped down the road.
At this point, I have learned from experience that not every design crush is going to be a perfect fit. But just like finding true love, the goal is to keep putting yourself out there, and playing the game. One day a dream client might come along that ends up being your best. Now, why can’t LinkedIn make “matching up” easier?
Faith Bartrug of FBD Studios (Columbus, Ohio) has more than a decade of experience in transforming national brands. Her background includes brand strategy, environmental design and visual merchandising, and she has been able to practice what she preaches with leading design firms and clients such as Neiman Marcus, JCPenney and Mark Pi’s.
Be sure to catch Faith's session (“40 Retailers, 40 Brands, 40 Minutes!“) at IRDC this year, Sept. 9-11 in Austin, Texas! For more information about IRDC, visit IRDConline.com.