Jumping Through Hoops for Prospective Web Design Clients

Booking new clients for your web design business is challenging. First, you have to find someone interested in your services. Then it’s a matter of hammering out an agreement so that you can start your journey together.

This sounds easy. But the process can feel like being in a reality show competition. Once in a while, you’ll run into a prospective client who plays the part of the sly host. They’ll test your limits by asking all sorts of philosophical questions and assorted odd requests.

Frankly, it’s a bit unnerving. Sometimes it can feel belittling. You’re trying to land a new client but have to endure the third degree. You might start to wonder if you’ll ever just get to the project.

How much of this must you tolerate? Where do you finally draw the line and say, “Thanks, but no thanks…”?

This is a subject with a lot of gray areas. But to help you decide, we’ll dive right into the heart of the matter. Let’s get started!

Are They Hiring a Web Designer or Performing a Background Check?

First, let’s get the obvious out of the way: prospective clients have a right to ask questions. It’s their time, money, and reputation on the line. Thus, a designer should always be prepared to answer.

Still, it is very possible to go too far. For instance, being asked if you’re available 24/7. Really? We’re web designers, not all-night donut shops. Many of us have set hours, just like other businesses. If a client wants that type of availability, they’d better be prepared to pay handsomely for it.

Sometimes it’s not just the questions they ask – it’s what they imply. Some people think web design isn’t a serious profession. Their queries sound like something you’d ask an untrustworthy teenager in a job interview.

After 20+ years in the industry, I still run into this every so often. It makes me think back to landing my first gig in the 1990s. Back then, the web was a new concept to mainstream businesses. Whether it’s misunderstanding or mistrust, it can be a bit insulting.

When you feel disrespected, take a step back. It’s certainly possible that you’re overreacting. But if that’s not the case, you’re better off walking away with your dignity intact.

Taking Advantage of Your Precious Time

Going beyond the interrogation stage, you might also get caught up in long, drawn-out conversations with a prospect.

Again, there’s nothing inherently wrong with engaging in such banter. It can be a nice way to form a relationship. This is beneficial when working together. But that’s not always the case.

In some situations, a prospective client may (figuratively) chew your ear off to get free advice – even if they have no intention of working with you. Whether it’s constant phone calls or emails, this can quickly get out of hand.

There’s a fine line between demonstrating common courtesy and allowing someone to waste your time. If a prospect crosses that threshold, it might be wise to politely push back.

You could say, for example, that you’re happy to give advice. But to go in-depth, you’ll have to charge an hourly fee. This should get the message across.

Looking for Free or Cheap “Favors”

Another approach taken by some prospects is angling for free or deeply-discounted work. And there aren’t a whole lot of benefits for web designers to play along.

Think of it this way: if someone isn’t willing to pay you what you’re worth, they’re not valuing what you do. All of your hard work, the successful portfolio, and hours of learning don’t particularly matter to them. They simply want something for nothing – or almost nothing.

Early in my career, I fell into the trap of giving away time and effort. What I learned is that the working relationship with a client tends to get stuck in a vicious cycle. They start to expect that you’ll leave money on the table to please them. And you, being fearful of losing a client, don’t want to push the envelope.

It’s important to remember that you don’t owe a prospect anything. Even if they’re friendly and complimentary of your work, it’s unlikely you’d call them an actual friend. Therefore, don’t be sweet-talked into any arrangements that won’t result in being fairly compensated.

This is among the more difficult aspects of running a business. You want to offer great service. But you also want to achieve financial independence. Even if it goes against your nature, you should still make decisions with this philosophy in mind.

Sometimes, a Web Design Project Isn’t Worth the Hassle

Over time, you can develop a keen eye concerning prospective clients. You’ll start to spot red flags for projects and people you want to avoid. All told, it’s about understanding the types of clients you want to work with.

One of the telling signs of a project is how you’re treated during the initial process. While perfection shouldn’t be expected, there are some basic tenets that a client should follow.

Are you being valued and respected? Is the person on the other end listening to what you have to say? Pay careful attention, as these characteristics will help you make the right decision.

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