Escapee Speaks: How to Educate Your Clients – Introduction

This is the introduction to the 4-Part series, “How to Educate Your Clients”, where we will examine the important role that education plays in your Freelance Illustration business.  You can read Part 1 here.

Why is Education Important?

In order to increase your chances of a successful working relationship with your clients, it is crucial that everyone understands what is expected of them, as well as how the project will likely unfold.  Taking the time to educate your clients will help to make them more comfortable with the process of working with a creative professional and smooth out any potential bumps in the road ahead.  Illustrators should consider the sharing of knowledge to be an integral part of the services they offer.  After all, we are more than just artists.  As contractors, we are often required to provide project management, and even consulting, to help ensure the success of a project.

It’s important to point out that each client will require varying degrees of this type of education, and the more seasoned clients, such as Art Directors, will likely require none at all.  The key is to always operate from the mindset of a professional who is willing to share knowledge in order to enhance the experience of the creative process and maximize the potential for a successful outcome.

First, Educate Yourself

Naturally, the idea is not to assume that you are smarter or more experienced than your clients, and it is equally important to remain open to the opportunities to learn from them as well.  The purpose of this series is rather to help to bridge any knowledge gap that lay between you and a successful collaborative experience.

Part of this is making sure to educate yourself on the various aspects of Illustration.  This will be a constant endeavor throughout your career, and will make you an increasingly effective artist, consultant, and project manager.

Also, if you are ever faced with a question that you don’t know the answer to, try to be equipped with ways of finding the knowledge you may lack by making education a continuing part of your life as an Illustrator.

So, What Knowledge Should You Be Prepared to Share?

To begin with, it will be valuable to have the ability to educate your clients on the creative process, industry standards, the concept of spec work, and any further knowledge that may be of use to them now or in the future.

Click on the links below as they are made available over the next 4 days to learn how to educate your clients in the following areas:

The Creative Process

Industry Standards

Spec Work

Sharing Further Knowledge

Related Posts:

• How to Spot a Problem Client
• Things to Consider When Pricing Your Work
• Is Your Art Rep Doing Anything For You?

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