This scenario is so common in design! Here’s a practical approach to navigate it effectively:
📌 Start with Key Questions
When a client says, "Make it unique" or "I want something different," dig deeper with follow-up questions. For example:
💡 "What kind of vibe or emotion do you want the design to convey?"
💡 "Are there any colors, shapes, or styles you’re drawn to—or want to avoid?"
💡 "Can you share examples of designs you find inspiring, even if they’re from another field?"
Since clients may struggle to articulate their vision, asking these questions can help uncover their preferences.
📌 Create a Mood Board
Compile a mood board featuring diverse visual styles and references. Include a range of options—from classic to bold—so clients can explore what resonates with them without fixating on specific details.
📌 Show Variations During Concept Development
Rather than presenting a single polished design, share a few rough concepts. Highlight what makes each one unique. This gives clients the chance to compare ideas and provide input before the design is finalized.
📌 Leverage Your Expertise
If a client says, "You’re the designer, make it different," gently explain that good design relies on clear direction. You might say, "To create something truly unique, I need to understand what ‘different’ means to you. This helps me craft a design that aligns with your vision while incorporating innovative elements." This reinforces the importance of collaboration.
📌 Align on a Prototype and Iterate
Once the client selects a direction, develop an initial prototype. Gather feedback on specific aspects like colors, fonts, and layout. Remind them that revisions are a natural part of the process, allowing you to refine the design while maintaining its uniqueness.
This approach combines open communication with guided discovery, balancing the designer’s creativity and the client’s input. The result? A final design that truly reflects their vision.
#design #ideas #workflow
Co-Owner, Designer at Pixelstrike Creative LLC
3moAs a designer, understanding the business like this is an inherent part of the job. I dare say designers who need to be “saved” by business only need to be because they weren’t doing this from the start.