Story: Work and life

When I worked as a graphic designer in Tokyo, I couldn’t meet a client a lot. I talked with only a middle person who is manage a project at a large advertising company. Our company worked as an outsourcing for them.

I knew I have to improve communication skill. Advertising magazine often mentioned how to talk to a client. I admired a case study of top creators. They make a good relationship with a client during a meeting. Art(creative) director designs (manage/facilitate) even meeting, take initiative a project.

I hadn’t many opportunities to do so. The work is life, in my case. I don’t distinguish between work and life. Therefore, I wanted to meet a client directly. This is one of the reasons why I’m here, Vancouver, Canada. Meeting people beyond nationality. This diversity and competitive society are attracted to me. If I back to Japan, I could make living quite easily. I know how to survive there. It won’t happen anymore. I determined that I live abroad. Canada gave me an opportunity. For better or worse, everything depends on me.

I am learning how to communicate with a client and people. It sounds very basic. However, the communication will be my life-long theme for me. Very depth. I would like to leave a note as a blog.

Establish The Terms of Engagement During First Client Meeting

@TheFutur

01. Connect
02. Aline
03. Deity of Choice
04. Clarify
05. Ask
06. Next steps

You are not just a designer, consultant. Hmm, I see. Talk a budget first 5 mins. It sounds so offensive to me, but I know the reason. If my estimate is out of a budget, client and I don’t need to waste our time. We don’t have to learn each other and ask a question(sounds little cold though). Making an estimate consumes much time. I have to implement it as a consultant, not a designer.

8 Tips for Running More Effective Meetings

@The Distilled Man

1. Figure out if a meeting is necessary.
2. Ensure only key people are invited.
3. Set the expectation with meeting attendees.
4. The meeting starts when the invite is sent.
5. Prewire meeting with an important topic.
6. Actively manage the meeting.
7. Agree on the next step during the meeting.
8. Bring donuts.

Meeting has started when it scheduled. There is homework. We have to make sure about it before the meeting. Then, everyone understands what next is after meeting. Sounds good.

My short term goal is to facilitate the design sprint. Define a client’s problems and goals. Take initiative and all get done in 5 days for a prototype. I always try to be at the next level.

12 Things That Ruin a First Impression Immediately

@BRIGHT SIDE

– A weak handshake.
– Keeping your hands in the wrong position.
– Chewing gum.
– Avoiding eye-contact.
– Playing with your hair.
– Picking the wrong conversation topics.
– Invading someone’s personal space.
– Making distracting noises.
– Constantly checking your phone.
– Forgetting people’s names.
– Being late.
– The wrong attire.

Everything basic for business people. I don’t worry about these, but I really care about remember the people’s name. I read Dale Carnegie’s book. He knew how tough it is. When I exchange a business card, I confirm the pronunciation carefully. I call the name for remembering it as much as possible.