Designer Mary (not her real name) went out on a new client call and became very enthusiastic about the possible new job. She had many good ideas that would transform this house into a showplace. Mary “hit it off” with the homeowner and shared many of her ideas thinking that his would be “her” job.
When, after a week Mary didn’t hear back from the homeowner, she followed up only to find that the happy homeowner and her friend, who she says is a “designer,” had been out shopping to complete all of Mary’s great ideas.
At one time or another, this situation has probably happened to all of us. Let’s take a closer look at what is going on here.
Mary has a reason to be upset, she feels that this client has stolen her ideas and taken advantage of her well-intentioned gift.
In some ways that is true, but the reality check is…
Mary gave away her valuable design ideas to a potential client who had no commitment to her.
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Mary never brought up the subject of money.
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Mary did not explain how she gets paid for her services or talk about the value of the services she provides.
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Mary did not talk about what the client’s expectations were or discuss a budget.
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Mary did not ask for a commitment (Letter of Agreement with a retainer check) before she started designing for this client.