Making The Most Of Communication In Your Graphic Design Business

Communication is the key to developing good business relationships, regardless of whether this is with your boss, your colleagues or your clients. Working in the graphic design industry means that you are one of the lucky few who has a wealth of communication tools at their fingertips. Whilst a number of communication avenues is one thing, however, the way that you communicate is also important - make sure that you are friendly, courteous and attentive. So, how else can you make the most of your communication?

Offer Advice - Sometimes, taking on a client's graphic design project is not a viable option at the present time. Perhaps they are unwilling to pay what you have quoted them or your plate is already overflowing. In these cases, however, clients will appreciate it if you sit down and offer them some advice - just make sure whether they are okay for you to do this first, as some clients will not listen to unsolicited tips.

Recommendations - It is important for everyone working in the graphic design industry to network with other creatives. This way, when projects requiring that little something extra come along, you will be able to recommend people who can work with you to bring the project to life or instead of you if you are unable to complete the desired work. If you pass on clients to your networks, you can hope that they will do the same for you.


Emails - Poor email handling can really make or break a relationship within the graphic design industry, especially as this is often the primary form of communication. If you are going to be on hiatus for an extended amount of time, consider setting up an automated reply that lets clients know you will attend to their email upon your return. And, when you have access to your emails, make sure that you respond to them in a timely fashion.

Live Communication - Above all, don't forget about live communication. Working in graphic design often submerges you into an online world, allowing you to forget how to deal with clients and colleagues in a face-to-face scenario. Make sure that you conduct yourself in a professional manner in the workplace (especially in meetings) and that you practice a friendly and clear phone manner.

The key to the success of any business is effective communication, and this is no different for someone working in the graphic design industry. By following the above tips, you will be set to make the most of the communication avenues that are open to you, allowing you to develop deeper relationships with your boss, your colleagues, your peers and your clients. You may even get some ideas of methods that you can add to your repertoire, allowing you to help out in even better ways.

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