- I don't like to dwell on the negative.
I prefer to focus on the right things to do
that will help you succeed.
But knowing what not to do is just as valuable.
We've covered the points of first contact,
how to present your portfolio, deliver the contract,
and set expectations.
Now, what are the most common errors made
when getting the project?
First, don't rush blindly into first contact.
We're all busy and it's easy to answer immediately
when we're called on a project.
Stop.
Take time and look into the company contacting you.
What do they make?
Does it fit within your ethical guidelines?
If you won't work with a company that harms animals
you may want to know that the cosmetics company
that called you has a no harm policy.
How are they doing financially?
How large is the company?
These facts will help you determine what projects
to present, how much to charge, and what the company
structure is for making decisions.
My first assistant was one of the smartest and most
organized people I've ever known.
But she had a thick Irish accent and wasn't so great
at taking messages.
I returned to the office from a meeting
and she told me that Peggy Copa called
and had a project.
Without doing any research I called Peggy immediately.
She answered and explained she needed help
with her beverage product.
I asked her if I might know her product already.
Yes, she said, it's called Pepsi Cola.
I didn't get the project.
Second, never criticize past clients.
It's bad form and makes you seem petty.
If you bad mouthed the last client,
why wouldn't you do the same to this potential client?
Obviously there are actual jerks out there
and you may have decided that client wasn't tolerable.
Rather than listing all the things that made you angry
focus on the work.
Explain what you liked about the project,
stay away from personalities.
And you can always answer a different question
than the one asked.
What was Mildred like to work with?
What I like is the fact that the book was loved
by so many children.
Third, don't assume the client understands something.
Nobody wants to look stupid when you explain
the RGB issues with a website.
He or she just nodded.
Stop and explain.
What is that in civilian or non designer terms?
A Serif typeface is the one with little feet.
Digital printing is the same as using the Inkjet
in your office but on a larger scale.
I might overdo it but I ask often, does that make sense?
Obviously there are many things that should not be done
such as wearing flip flops to a meeting or not bathing.
But assuming you have personal appearance
and basic manners in place, it's these less obvious issues
that can cost you a job.
Do your research, say good things about others,
and explain them clearly.
Hopefully like I'm doing here.