Such one-to-one relationships need not arise solely for the sake of project efficiency,but also out of common interests or sheer interpersonal chemistry, so it is important to cultivate an atmosphere where rapport can build between individuals on both sides of the project. Primarily, this atmosphere requires that designers see team members unrestricted by job titles and work responsibilities.The designer must recognize where natural “fits” occur, and allow those relationships to form.
ASK GOOD QUESTIONS AT THE RIGHT TIME
One of the most important skills in client management is the ability to ask excellent questions. The designer must draw out the client’s desires in terms that are specific enough for the designer to deliver a solution that does not merely meet expectations, but totally satisfies.
LISTEN
Reaching a true understanding of what the client wants can feel like an exercise in mind reading, but it is really an exercise in effective listening. The
designer must be invested in listening for answers—both to the questions that
have been asked (as described above), and to those that have not.