Kitchen Designer/Client Synergy - How It Works
I had a meeting with a client today, one whose project has stopped and started over many months. Now, we're on a roll, finally.
This client is lovely. She's high spirited, often opinionated and always positive. She obviously really enjoys the process, which is delightful to see.
Here's the thing...I guess I understand what an actor on the stage means when he/she says that he/she "feeds off" of the audience, and the audience is different every night.
My energy, my creativity, my spirit, in large part, is fed from the client. If the client is positive, I'll double that feeling, resulting in lots of real enthusiasm and quite possibly, enhanced creativity. If the client is reserved, nervous, or negative, the stage is set for me to try to bring us to higher ground, where we can connect and become real partners in this venture. I'm at my absolute best with a positive, engaged, interested client. It becomes magic!
Today, I brought forth ideas rapid-fire, I exulted and exclaimed loudly when we hit on a great idea, all in response to a very motivated and positive client. Serious/reserved/"professional demeanor?" I'd rather exclaim, "look at THIS, wow!"
I enjoyed myself immensely today. Clients, motivate your designers with a positive demeanor. You'll get the best work from your designer, and you'll have some fun too. Relax, relate, reap rewards!
Monday, November 26, 2007 at 08:49PM
Reader Comments (12)
God,Susan,you're so good at putting it into words!
Now that's the kind of enthusiasm I'm talking about! ;)
amen
Amen sistah!
Hi Susan,
Being able to work side by side with you is both rewarding and fascinating! I am so thrilled to be such an integral part of the design process for my kitchen. Everyone wants to create their dream kitchen, but often, it is left up to the designer to figure out what the client's dream actually is. With you, we are figuring it out together, mulling every detail until we are completely satisfied. Your own energy, excitement and attention to detail has made me so confident that my kitchen will be no less than extraordinary. I feel so fortunate to have found you.
Thank you for making this a journey to remember!
See you soon,
Paula
What a great testimonial... clip that one for "the kitchen designer book".
Paula, thanks! Yes, I think we're having a bit too much fun, we must tone it down! Nah, not a chance. See you Monday!
Mark, oh, good idea!!
Well said Susan.
The synergy that happens when a client is truly involved is a sight to behold.
We designers are always "on".
But when a client joins us is when the magic happens.
Even better is when a whole BUNCH of us get together on a project: client, kitchen designer, contractor, architect; and get that synergy thing going.
More magic.
The whole thing can easily go awry if one doesn't want to play, but when we all do, it's a symphony.
Peggy
Music to my ears! I'm so excited to be working with you Susan! To date you've exceeded expectation and we haven't even really g
Music to my ears! I'm so excited to be working with you Susan! To date you've exceeded expectation and we haven't even really g
Aaahh!! Sorry I was so excited that I accidentally hit the button! Anyway, I'm looking forward everything that is to come! :)
Peggy, great way to put it. When it's good, as they say, it's great! And, a lot of fun too.
Marcy, looking forward to working together in that cyberway! :)