Mean Business

Image is also arrived at by how people observe the way you conduct your business. Time is the most valuable asset we don't have. Time is made up of the very same things that our images are made of. However if one sets a deadline for a piece to be completed the repercussions of not having it completed on time can become something that truly will spell out the realities of life. The least you can expect in most cases is that the client will never deal with you again especially if the customer happens to be a commercial Enterprise and is depending on your work to complete their project. Punctuality whether it be getting the project done to deadline or showing up for client meetings on time must be a major priority.

Artwork should be neatly presented using a specific cover stock to protect the work with your business card attached to it. If the patron has some issues with the piece notes should be taken and changes made to the clients specifications this applies mainly to commercial work. When it comes to fine art there should be a clear understanding that the creation you have produced is not to be altered remember you are the artist, situations do arise where there are exceptions but if you feel that these changes would affect the spirit of the piece then stick to your guns. Some things are beyond price one of them is integrity. It is always a good rule of thumb to let the customer know what he or she can expect to the nearest degree before you start the project in the first place, this for the most part will avoid any misunderstanding a written contract is usually the best with both parties signing off on what is to be done.

As far as payment goes I usually expect half of the worth of the job before I start. The reason is by doing this it shows good faith on the part of the client and they are lot less likely to walk away from something when they have money tied into it already. Always be suspicious of anyone who wants to pay you on completion of the job. If the work is custom designed and you don't have a down your left holding the bag. A written and signed contract is protection to some degree but a vested interest on the clients part is the most effective insurance. When you are dealing with clients in this manner they realize that you mean business and are more likely to treat you with the respect you deserve. Once again it boils down to perception which is a large part of your "image".

Till next time...