Here's how you can convey your design ideas and concepts to a non-designer boss.

Use simplicity when explaining design concepts to your boss. Avoid overwhelming them with jargon or technical details. Instead, use plain language and relate design elements to their functionality or business impact. For example, explain how a certain color evokes trust and professionalism rather than discussing color theory. Keeping explanations straightforward helps your boss grasp the essence of your design without getting bogged down by intricacies.

Avant même d'expliquer le concept, il est toujours bon de rappeler le brief qui a été fait et les enjeux. Le but est de laisser l'interlocuteur en face se faire une première sensation sans qu'il soit de suite influencé par vos orientations. Le temps et le silence sont également de l'appropriation du design par l'autre.

Use clear, simple language and visuals they can understand. Maybe it's a quick sketch or a reference image that gets your point across. Remember, they don't need to see the technical details, just the end result and the problem it solves.

When it will be explanation to a non designer boss either need to show prototype or visuals, which will be helpful to understand.

L'heure est au digital et au sans-papier mais j'insisterai tout de même sur quelques aides visuelles imprimées qui permettent à votre patron de manipuler les propositions/papiers, les prioriser, noter, réfléchir. Le corps a 5 sens et ils sont tous connectés.

Focus on goals by aligning your design presentation with the company's objectives. Demonstrate how your design choices drive business success, such as improving customer satisfaction with a user-friendly interface or increasing market share with a well-crafted brand identity. When your boss sees the direct correlation between design and business outcomes, they are more likely to support your ideas.

The key is to focus on the big picture, the overall goal and how your design achieves it. Use clear, simple language and visuals they can understand. Maybe it's a quick sketch or a reference image that gets your point across. Remember, they don't need to see the technical details, just the end result and the problem it solves.

Encourage feedback by inviting your boss to share their thoughts. Ask specific questions to guide their input towards constructive aspects of the design, such as usability or brand alignment. This approach makes them feel involved in the process and provides valuable insights into their priorities and concerns. Feedback sessions can be learning opportunities for both of you, helping you understand business perspectives better while they gain insight into the design process.

Les séances de feedback sont parfois des séances où il est difficile de se taire au bon moment. En effet, le but n'est pas de convaincre définitivement sur un choix de design mais d'écouter l'autre et de regarder ses réactions lorsqu'il s'agit d'une première présentation.

Be patient when communicating with someone who may not immediately grasp design concepts. If your boss doesn't understand something, don't get frustrated; instead, find a different way to explain it or use additional examples. Remember, your role is to design and to educate and advocate for good design within your organization. Patience and persistence will pay off as your boss begins to see the value of your expertise.

Patience is indeed a valuable quality, especially when communicating with non-designer stakeholders or navigating complex design processes. 1) Understanding different perspectives 2) Clarifying design practices 3) Address concerns and questions 4) Navigating feedback sessions 5) Managing expectations 6) Building trust and collaboration 7) Maintaining professionalism By practicing patience in your interactions, you create a conducive environment for effective communication, collaboration, and success in your design endeavors.

Translate the value of your design into terms that resonate with your boss's priorities. Whether it's increasing engagement, boosting sales, or enhancing brand reputation, link each design decision to a clear business benefit. When your boss sees the return on investment in design, they are more likely to champion your ideas and support creative initiatives in the future.

Here’s what else to consider: Share examples, stories, or insights that provide additional context or depth to your design approach. Highlight successful projects where your design choices led to positive business outcomes, or discuss industry trends that reinforce your strategies. Personal anecdotes about overcoming design challenges can also be powerful. This space allows you to add richness to your presentation, making your case for the value of good design even stronger.