Although obtaining new clients is important, retaining current clients is even more so – research has proven that it costs approximately five times more to find a new client than it does to keep a current one.

Whether you own a company or are just a designer working on freelance projects, building the client relationship is one of the most important things to do for a successful business.

Here are 4 tips for building long-lasting client relationships:

Communicate

When working with a new client, communication is key. It’s the best way to build trust, and when a client trusts you, they will keep coming back to you for more work. In design, everyone has a style they prefer; it’s the designer’s job to show a client’s style through the designs. Communication will lead to the understanding of what a client wants to portray and will ultimately lead to a stronger finished product.

Offer Options

Often, clients will have a general idea of what they’re looking for. Occasionally, however, you’ll get clients who have no idea what they want in a design. It’s very important to give them different options so they know what their vision could look like in more than one way. If they give you specific instructions, then design what they want, but also put your own spin on it as another option. They just might like your idea better.

Share Knowledge

If the client knew everything about design, they wouldn’t need to hire you. Share what you know with them and help them understand why you’re doing what you’re doing. Also, clients don’t always want to hear that they’re right; sometimes looking at something in a new way – your way – is what they need. If you are nothing more than a robot taking instructions, the client relationship won’t last very long.

Meet Deadlines

Another critically important part of building a good client relationship is meeting their deadlines. If you don’t meet their deadlines, it means your communication is lacking and they rightfully won’t trust you. If they know you’re dependable, they’ll keep coming to you for work.

If you want to be a successful designer – or businessperson in general – with long-lasting client relationship, these tips are a great place to start. For more help, contact us!