Category : Podcast

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Podcast #1 – Carl Smith on Attracting Your Ideal Client

This week in the podcast we had the luxury of talking with Carl Smith of nGen Works on the topic of attracting your ideal clients. Over the course of the podcast we talk about how to identify your ideal client, methods of gaining exposure, and how to be awesome in front of potential clients. Towards the end of the show we also answer a few listener questions about budgets, nGen Express, and helping clients see the value of good design.
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in Business, Clients, Freelancing, Podcast, Video Posts

Talking Shop – Episode 10 – Feeling Out Clients

I know we all tend to have the same exact workflow with every client we work with. It only makes sense. I mean, if something works well, why do it any differently? Well, what if by doing it differently you could actually do it better? That’s what today’s video is about.

I have been exploring ways to make my WordPress Designers more about the client and less about me as a designer. In exploring for ways to make this happen I began to wonder what it would be like if I tried changing up my design workflow to be more client friendly.

Basically, what I did was talk to the client several times until I felt I had a pretty good idea of how the client liked to do things. For example, was he going to be a very hands on client, or was just going to be happy with anything I did? Did he seem like he had a very specific idea in mind or was he unsure of what he want exactly?

It seemed to me that if I adjusted my workflow to better suit the type of client that I was working with the benefits would be plentiful. By adjusting my workflow to fit the client, I would have less headaches (maybe), eliminate wasted time on design and development, give the client a more personalized experience, let the client feel more involved, and most importantly; the ability to build n even stronger relationship with the client.

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Talking Shop Episode – Using Stock Graphics

I find the people have mixed feelings about the use of stock graphics in design. Im not just talking about backgrounds or icons, but vectors, photos, and other more detailed items. Some people tend to look down their nose at designers who use a lot of stock graphics.

Personally, I don’t think there is anything wrong with it. I tend to use a lot of stock graphics in my work, but thats just me.

I want to know what you guys think about the use of stock graphics in web and print design.

in Podcast

Talking Shop Episode – Getting Published

A lot of people have asked me how I manged to get work on many of the major design blogs and even published in some big name web design magazines. The answer is surprisingly simple, but you’ll have to listen to the podcast to here it.

Show Notes

The book I mention in the podcast is called The Writers Market. they also make a Graphic Designers Market, but I have never looked at that one before. I’d be interested in hearing from anyone who has.

in Business, Podcast

Talking Shop Episode – Setting Aside Time for Personal Projects

Today’s Talking Shop with Danny Outlaw comes in the form of a mini podcast rather than a video post. Why you ask? As may or may not know, I am going to be the host for the official podcast for the TUTS+ Tutorials websites. See this post I wrote on GraphicRiver for more details. As such, i figured I should brush up on my hosting and podcasting skills a little more. Talking into a mic is a lot different that doing videos if you can believe it. I apologize for the mic quality. I will be getting areal one in a few weeks. The podcast is only a few minutes long, so just bare with me.

The Question

@DannyOutlaw How do you allocate time for skill building or side projects? Is it scheduled around client work or regimented? (via @webdesignfanboy)

in Podcast

Episode 1 – Dealing with Pushy Clients

The second Outlaw Design Podcast is upon us with your truly as the host. I tried to listen to some of the suggestions from readers and listeners of the last post, so hopefully the paid off. If you guys think I did ok than I may be the regular host! Wooo!

Show Notes

Guest Panelist: Niki Brown from Design O Blog

Overview:
In this episode I would like to talk about that variety of “bad” clients one comes in contact with and how to deal with them. These “bad” clients can include those who push for free/spec work, ask for more than what is included in the original scope, those who get upset when they don’t like the outcome of a project, and those who are just plain mean. Lets talk about these sorts of clients and what are the most professional ways to handle them.

Questions and topics that were covered:
-Whats your worst client story involving a “bad” client?
-How do you respond to clients who ask for more than you originally agreed on?
-What methods do you take to ensure you and your client are always on the same page?
-How do handle clients who just continually don’t like what you produce?
-What do you do when a client wants there money back because they are unhappy working with you?
-How do you hand clients who don’t pay?

Suggested Resources:
Danny – Things App
Andrew – Mozy Backup
Niki – WuFoo Form Builder

Listen to the Podcast