HOW TO EXECUTE A CLIENT’S VISION & CAPTURE ALL THE CONTENT THEY NEED

1. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and have intake meetings (or multiple).

There have been times when a client has given a broad concept and that’s it. It’s okay to ask for further details to clear any misunderstandings, rather than feel the pain of delivering something they don’t like. However, clients trust us to use our skills to execute something that they aren’t as knowledgeable of—knowing enough to enter production allows for balance between clientele and production creative desires. Even if it feels like overcommunicating, most times, people appreciate that more than lack of communication at all.”

2. “Trust your own skillset and allow yourself to trust the skillset of others.

This is a little bit more of a behind-the-scenes tip/mindset, but for example, I know my strength lies in pre-production and timeline management. The team I’m a part of has people with strength in different skills. Because of this, I know we’re solid, and I know we’ll be able to deliver well.”

3. “Make a moodboard.

It helps and will always help. It’s good for guidance internally, but to also show the clientele what you’re thinking. They can always send visual references as well. I find that having physical reference helps eliminate miscommunication, and most people tend to be visual learners. Seeing just helps.”

4. “Ask yes or no questions.

It helps streamline the process for both the contractor and the client. I’ve found that more often than not, clients want us to do the ‘heavier thinking’. They have an idea that they want to execute, and it’s up to us to fine tune and go through figuring out the details to deliver what they want. I’ve found that compiling questions, ideas for approval, etc. where clients can just give a yes or a no (with optional comments) helps make the process of a back-and-forth more streamlined.”