What do you do if your graphic design clients give vague or conflicting feedback?

1 Seek Clarity

When presented with unclear feedback, your first step should be to seek clarity. Engage in a dialogue with your client to pinpoint their needs. Ask open-ended questions that encourage them to elaborate on their thoughts. For example, if they say they want the design to be more 'dynamic', ask them what 'dynamic' looks like to them. Is it about color, movement, typography? This way, you can gather specific information that will guide your revisions and help you create a design that aligns with their vision.

3 Visual Examples

Sometimes words fail to convey the precise meaning in design. In such cases, use visual examples to bridge the gap. Present mood boards, sketches, or other designers' work that aligns with what they've described. This can help clients visualize possibilities and refine their feedback. It also provides a tangible reference point for both parties, which can facilitate more concrete discussions about the project's direction.

4 Set Boundaries

It's important to set boundaries regarding revisions. Clearly communicate how many rounds of changes are included in your service and what constitutes a revision versus a new concept. This sets expectations and encourages clients to consolidate their feedback. It also protects you from endless cycles of tweaks that can make a project unprofitable and frustrating. Boundaries help maintain a respectful and professional relationship with your client.

5 Reflect Emotionally

Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in dealing with vague or conflicting feedback. Reflect on the emotions behind the feedback; sometimes, what seems like a design critique could stem from the client's stress or uncertainty. By understanding the emotional context, you can respond more empathetically and work towards a solution that addresses both the emotional and practical aspects of the feedback.

6 Document Changes

Lastly, document all requested changes. This ensures that both you and your client have a record of what has been discussed and agreed upon. It can also help prevent future misunderstandings or disputes about the scope of work. Keeping track of revisions allows you to reflect on the evolution of the project and provides a clear trail of the decision-making process.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?