[zibizibi]

Hi everyone,

Maybe a third of my projects never actually start (for instance I give my quote, the client accepts and goes on for a few emails, then nothing) or start but then nothing (a deposit is paid then nothing happens, or the client becomes silent in the middle of the project development).

Is it normal, do you experience the same ? Should I consult a clientologist ?

[D.Schuster]

Hello zibizibi

the short answer is: Yes

The long answer however is:
that happens quite often, clients usually loose interest, find a better offer/deal and many other reasons, the biggest problem we as web designers face is the imagination of our clients, sadly we can not see into it not can we see their personality, with time you learn to place a good guess on what person XY might like but you can never be certain, usually clients just don't get the same result as they imagined, do not even for a second think that this means you're a bad designer or that your work is not good, if you place 4 people in a room with a design you'll get 20 different opinions about it, that's why it's REALLY hard to meet the expectations of the clients imagination.

Try selling your designs, convince the clients that what you're doing will benefit them, explain why you used certain colours etc. also make the client a part of the project, ask them lots and lots of questions(if you see they're willing to participate ofc. NEVER force them to do so, might make you look like you can't do anything yourself) while doing this also remember NOT to agree with everything they say, if you know that certain colours don't mix or that their ideas are horrible, tell them.....politely most people will appreciate your feedback and it will make you look more professional, also this helps you build a steady portfolio, I rather make a website for 500€ that looks awesome then a horrible one for 1000€ and have my name placed on that.

This post has been edited by D.Schuster: 21 November 2011 - 02:38 PM

[rallport]

If lots were failing, I'd personally want to know why. Try a few phone calls spread over several days for example.

I'm no web designer (a developer) but frokm what I see in client meetings I'm involved with, is that the client want to tailor the site to their personal tastes - not waht would work for their niche.

[zibizibi]

Thanks guys for your answers. I was refering above all to clients who disappear before seeing any design or before signing. I'm a beginner so my impression is based on a small number of cases, let's see if it's just an impression or not.

[a1digitalmedia]

Try and keep in better contact with your customers and create a friendly relationship. All of our clients visit our offices, have a cup of tea, sit down relax and discuss website requirements. For those which are further away we keep in close telephone contact and try to build a personal relationship. Once you have established yourself as an expert in your area, customers will only be too happy to recommend your work to others.

This post has been edited by a1digitalmedia: 01 December 2011 - 04:09 PM