5 First-Time Client Mistakes

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Navigating a first-time client relationship can be both exciting and nerve-racking. Whether you’re an established designer or just starting out, knowing the potential pitfalls can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Below, Lyndsay—Head of Design Development at Longina Phillips Designs—shares her firsthand insights on the top mistakes designers make with new clients, along with practical pointers for avoiding them.

1. Not Explaining Your Process Transparently

   “This is really important in building trust with your new client and helps them set realistic expectations,” Lyndsay says.

   Smart Strategies:

   • At the outset, walk clients through each step of your design process (from ideation to revisions).
   • Provide a simple one-page document or PDF explaining timelines, deliverables, and what you need from them.
   • Encourage questions and clarify how you prefer to communicate (email, phone, etc.) so they understand what to expect.
     
     

2.  Skipping Client Research

   “You need to fully understand the context of the design—be it for swimwear, women’s fashion, kidswear, or interiors. Check out their website and social media for clues.”

   Smart Strategies:

   • Before your first meeting, spend at least 15 minutes researching the client’s brand, style, and target market.
   • Keep a checklist: brand history, competitor analysis, style references.
   • If you’re unsure about anything, ask direct questions rather than guessing.
     
     

3. Using a Rushed, Blunt Communication Style

   “In a busy studio, it’s easy to dash off quick emails. But a friendly tone can be hard to nail down—always double-check how you come across.”

   Smart Strategies:

   • Take a moment to review emails for tone before hitting send—aim for clear yet friendly.
   • Use polite greetings and closings to maintain a cordial rapport.
   • Consider picking up the phone or scheduling a video chat if the topic is sensitive or complex.
     
     

4. Failing to Clarify Project Scope Early

   “When the client offers no clear direction—no artwork references, colour cues, or deadlines—it can lead to constant back-and-forth.”

   Smart Strategies:

   • Start every project with a detailed questionnaire or brief template.
   • Ask for specific references (mood boards, images, brand guidelines) before you begin any design work.
   • Explain why you need these details—it shows professionalism and reduces revisions later.
     
     

5. Not Checking the Basics: Colour, Scale & Printing Method

   “If the client doesn’t know what colour or scale they want, you’ll end up spending time defining these for them, which can inflate project hours.”

   Smart Strategies:

   • Present options or a style guide early in the process to guide these decisions.
   • Break down how colour choices, sizing, and printing methods can affect the final outcome.
   • If the client is unsure, offer professional recommendations but also explain the implications (cost, timing, feasibility).
     
     ​If clarifying these basics still leaves you with questions about pricing, selling your collection, or finding new clients our Comprehensive Business Builder Course can help. This course is designed to provide a step-by-step framework that demystifies these industry expectations and sets you up for success—without the guesswork. ​
     

     
     Part 2 coming soon!
     
     

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