Great design doesn’t just come from talent—it comes from clear communication, mutual respect, and a strong client-designer relationship.
Whether you’re hiring a freelance designer or working with a creative agency, how you speak to them can make or break your project’s success.
Here are six common phrases clients say that could potentially damage trust or hurt collaboration—and what to say instead.
1. “Can we lower the fee? I have more projects for you.”
This is known in the creative industry as the “dangling carrot” technique—where a client promises more work in the future in exchange for lower rates today.
Why it’s a problem:
Professional designers know that speculative promises don’t pay the bills. If you lead with this, you may come across as undervaluing their work.
What to say instead:
“Do you offer package deals or retainers for long-term collaborations?”
This shows that you’re serious about working together and open to a mutually beneficial agreement.
2. “Can you do this for free? I’ll promote you—I have a lot of followers.”
It’s tempting to offer exposure in exchange for work, especially if you have a decent online presence. But…
Why it’s a problem:
Exposure doesn’t pay rent or software licenses. Time spent on free work takes away from income-generating projects. Even if your following is large, there’s no guarantee it will translate into clients for the designer.
What to say instead:
“I currently don’t have the budget, but would you be open to a trade or barter for services?”
Some designers might be open to exchanges, but always ensure the value is equal and the offer is respectful.
3. “Can you give me some options? I’ll know it when I see it.”
This is a red flag for any creative professional.
Why it’s a problem:
This phrase suggests that you don’t have a clear direction or goal. Designers need a foundation to work from—strategy, audience, tone, and messaging. Without it, the project becomes a guessing game that wastes time and resources.
What to say instead:
“I’d love to explore a few directions. Here are some inspirations, preferences, and goals I have in mind.”
Clear input equals better output. Reference brands, color palettes, or even vibes you like.
4. “Can you start the design? We’re still finalizing the content.”
Why it’s a problem:
In design, content drives layout and structure. The number of words, tone, and type of message all influence how a designer approaches visual hierarchy, spacing, and elements. Starting without final content often leads to rework.
What to do instead:
Wait until the copy is at least 90% finalized—or work in collaboration with a designer and content creator so the content and visuals align properly.
5. “Can you do this real quick? I need it today.”
Urgency is valid in business—but rushed design is rarely good design.
Why it’s a problem:
Design, especially branding or logo work, is a process. It requires research, thought, creativity, and refinement. Treating it like a last-minute task undervalues the craft.
What to say instead:
“What’s the earliest you can reasonably complete this? Let me know if there’s a rush fee involved.”
This shows respect for their time and process.
6. “Can you make it pop?”
This is one of the most infamous phrases designers hear—and it rarely ends well.
Why it’s a problem:
It’s vague, unhelpful, and subjective. “Pop” could mean color, contrast, size, movement, or something else entirely. Designers need specific feedback to execute your vision accurately.
What to say instead:
“I’d like the headline to stand out more—maybe a bolder font or brighter color?”
The more specific your feedback, the easier it is for your designer to nail the result.
Final Thought: Good Communication Builds Better Designs
Remember: designers aren’t just button pushers—they’re creative problem-solvers.
When you treat your designer with professionalism, clarity, and respect, the outcome is always better. Projects get done faster, the results are more aligned with your vision, and the working relationship flourishes.
Mutual respect = long-term success.
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