"...no need to worry about my web site as my girlfriend has begun to create it for me. thanks for your help earlier..."
Good grief.
I received this email from a client this morning. A client that is starting a new business and needs to create everything, a logo, brand strategy, website, the works. Now I'm sure I've made mistakes with this client, as clearly they're not getting the value of a professional designer, but I'm still mystified by these kind of reactions. The truth is that I should be pleased, as given the quoted thought above this probably would not have been an enjoyable project, and just a paycheck (though I would have enjoyed that aspect).
Back to square one, learning to communicate the value of experience as the very first step.
Comments
Sandy says:
I get this a lot too, however, the website never does quite make it to launch. If you still want to work with this client, check back in two months - if there's no website, then follow up with them. I have had two potential clients in this situation and both ended up using my services after waiting and waiting for the cousin, uncle, girlfriend, etc. When I followed up, I stressed that we could have a site completed and launched within a month. I think people's first instinct is to go for the free service. As designers I think we all need to work together better with small business to stress the importance of brand identity and cohesiveness. Keep plugged away, I know I will!
February 25, 2010 at 1:53 PM | Permalink
Bill says:
Thanks Sandy, yes, I agree, these sites never do quite make it to launch. Or if they do, well, after looking at it you kind of wish they didn't do anything at all :-)
February 25, 2010 at 6:04 PM | Permalink