A photographer’s transition from working alone to working with clients can be a rocky road. There are certain things we have to give up. For example: learning how to produce great work that your client wants and not just what you want. This can be a challenge, especially when you are accustomed to working alone for the majority of your career. Getting hired provides experience and money. There is a lot of money to be earned from commercial photography, but you have to put the client first while being honest to yourself. This does not come easy while client satisfaction is at hand. When it comes to leaving an excellent impression on your client, the extra effort really counts. The client will keep coming back and most likely will share their experience with other potential clients for you as well. Here are a few tips when working with clients.
Written by LuAnne DeMeo
- Listen.
Effective listening allows you to have exact knowledge of what the client wants and needs from you. Listening also allows for fewer misunderstandings of the goals you and your client are trying to achieve for the specific project. Listening helps develop long-term relationships because of your willingness to be respectful and show great care for your client. This, in turn, develops into loyalty.
- Be Honest.
Be forthright and realistic about your services and what you can provide. Being honest will show you have integrity and is the key element in any relationship, either personal or professional. Honesty builds the foundation, which allows trust to grow between you and your client.
- Be ready to go above and beyond.
Prove to your client you can do the work exceptionally well and will be there for them if they need help. This will demonstrate your commitment to the professional relationship and show you take pride in your work.
- Treat all of your clients like they are your only client.
Juggling clients takes excellent time management skills. This can be overwhelming when deadlines are tight. Create a schedule and stick to it. Your most important job is to take care of them.
- Deliver what you promise.
There are absolutely no excuses to not deliver the product you promised on time or even a day or two early. Your reputation is at stake during a project and you need to show you can deliver and exceed your client’s expectations. Also, always be sure to follow up with your client and thank them for the opportunity to work with them.
