Real-Life Communication -- Solution
Most architectural designers will tell you that good communication
skills are essential if you want to be successful in this business. Asking
lots of questions is what Frances Kerr, a color designer, does with all of
her clients.
"You have to be able to communicate very well with your
clients," says Kerr. She says it's essential to find out what they like
and don't like. That also means that sometimes you have to put your personal
tastes aside.
Kerr says the questions she usually asks her clients
are quite simple and straightforward. They might include:
- What is your favorite color?
- Why is it your favorite color?
- What is your least favorite color and why?
- What color do you think might look good in this room?
- Are there any rooms in the house that are in a color you particularly
like?
- How do you want the room(s) to look once they've been repainted?
(You could suggest cozy, bright or welcoming.)
- What colors do you like to wear?
- What colors do you rarely wear?
"What people have in their closets is often the most revealing thing,"
says Kerr. However, without rummaging around in your client's closet,
it is important to take notice of what else is in the house.
"Build
around what they have," says Kerr. And notice the decor and the permanent
fixtures that can't be changed.
The more you find out about what
your client likes, the easier it will be to choose the correct colors. Find
out if they plan on replacing the orange couch, or if it's something
they want to build the room around. "It's very much a matter of communicating
with your clients," says Kerr, adding that listening skills are also an important
trait.