Managing Expectations

Trading Miscommunication for Aligned Understanding.

Every designer knows the scenario: a client changes their mind and adds “just one more thing,” or feels disappointed despite your best effort. Misaligned expectations can derail the most exquisite design.

Much of these conflicts aren’t about talent or effort, they’re about communication. Without a structured intake process, projects start off on shaky ground. Designers guess at what matters most, clients may feel unheard, and there is a feedback loop that spins on itself getting the project nowhere.

This is where coaching and advisory support makes the difference. I help firms implement clear client intake frameworks and pre-design processes that articulate values, scope, and desired outcomes up front. These conversations align vision with action, reducing revisions and creating transparency that strengthens trust.

Clients feel seen. Designers feel supported. And projects unfold with greater ease and efficiency.

When expectations are met with care and clarity, client relationships have the opportunity to become long-term partnerships (and referral engines).