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There is a common problem between designers and clients: clients usually aren’t designers. Designers know about whitespace, typography, and colors, while clients know about market value, business tactics, and water coolers.

Therefore, when a client comes to a designer with a clear idea of what they want, the idea often goes against all the good design practices a designer knows.

But what I suggest to you is this:

Don’t fight!

It is better to say “Yes, And” than to go against the client.

Listen intently to their ideas. There are reasons why they choose the things they do. Most of the time, they were moved by someone else’s design, and want to recreate it. Sometimes you’ll have to guide them down the right path, but once again, don’t fight: redirect.

It is much easier to get them to change details in their design than to immediately contradict their suggestions. That is the key to the “redirect”

Here are some steps to follow through on:

• Say Yes: accept and listen to their suggestions
• Create a mock up to show them what they’re asking for. They will get a better idea of what design ideas may work and which may not work.
• Say And: Offer suggestions on how to modify and improve the design. This is the point where you can start to offer your suggestions.
• Work with your client to create a design that [hopefully] you’ll both be proud of. Communication is key. Once again, don’t fight: redirect.

Finally, remember that they are a customer, and ultimately, it is of my opinion that the customer is always right.

Find a way to collaborate well to make your clients want to come back and collaborate again.

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