Successful Blog

Working With Designers Should be Joyful, Not Painful

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By Paul Biedermann

working with designers should be joyful

Good designers are hard to find and sometimes even harder to work with. But it doesn’t need to be this way.

It is common for a client to ask for something and then wonder why the designer won’t just give them what they want. After all, “the customer is always right.”

Wrong.

That may work in a fast food restaurant or a shoe store, but when it comes to working in the area of professional design communications, it gets a bit more complex than that. And really, you — as the client — shouldn’t want it any other way. In fact, if a designer isn’t asking questions and challenging assumptions, they are probably not very good and you won’t be realizing the full power of what design can bring to your business.

The key is to not interpret pushback as being difficult, but rather as a welcomed and necessary part of the process for doing good work. In other words, the way to begin a project with a designer is not by telling them what to do, but rather by laying out the objectives to be achieved and then letting them recommend a solution. Designers are problem solvers, not decorators. Design usually satisfies a host of different needs and requirements, and that means a defined process is necessary to get there.

So, if a designer seems like they are giving resistance and aren’t listening to what you want, it is possible that they are simply trying to pursue the path to success, which isn’t always as clear cut as it may seem. It may also include redefining the problem in order to proceed most effectively and arrive at the best solution for your business. And if they keep coming back to the same questions, it is likely they haven’t yet received the information they need to do their jobs well — so rather than writing it off as being difficult, it’s worth keeping an open mind that perhaps they really have only your best interests at heart.

The best design experiences occur when the designer and client work in collaboration, each respecting the other’s contributions to a successful outcome.

The perfect client:

• Clearly articulates the goals, objectives and problem to be solved.

• Provides any supporting information and practical considerations pertinent to the project.

• Is timely in reviewing preliminary designs and responsive to any communications

• Understands that the designer is as interested in the successful outcome of the project as they are.

A good designer:

• Pays careful attention to the goals of the project and what needs to be accomplished.

• Requests any details, information or content necessary for proceeding with the project that hasn’t already been provided.

• Stays on top of the schedule and keeps the client engaged at key phases throughout the duration of the project.

• Understands that the client is the ultimate decision-maker and does what is necessary to ensure as smooth a process as possible for an effective design solution.

This is a quick summary, of course — but these are the key roles and responsibilities that any successful design collaboration requires. If friction develops at any point during the process, it is usually because one of these points is missed.

Don’t make the mistake of dismissing someone who is persistent for a “defensive designer” with a big ego. Those exist too, of course, but it is usually a matter of someone who has practiced their craft for a long time, knows how to get the job done, and is passionate about what they do. Respect their expertise and they will respect yours, and it will likely be a fruitful process for both of you — and the project wins.

The design process can be fun, challenging and invigorating. For that to happen, it is important that each side fulfills its basic responsibilities — working together, which also means letting the other side do what it does best.

Embracing ambiguity during the often “murky” process of design can have a big payoff down the road — but it also means trusting your designer, so make sure you hire a good one!

Author’s Bio: Paul Biedermann is the Creative Director/Owner of re:DESIGN, a small design agency specializing in Strategic Design, Brand Identity, and Visual Content Marketing — intersecting smart design with business strategies that reach, engage, and inspire people to action. Blending traditional and leading-edge media tactics. Paul consistently delivers integrated, award-winning results for his clients. Connect with him on Google+ or Twitter.

 

Image via Creative Commons, Amber De Bruin.

Can Logging In Be Fun? Clef Says Yes.

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It was all fun and games until my purse got stolen.

We were on a great vacation, and visiting the Arizona Memorial on Oahu. In the parking lot, there was a sign that warned “High theft area, do not leave valuables in car.” So what did I do? Put my purse in the trunk of the rental car and went in to see the museum. A couple of hours later, you can guess what happened. Vacation ruined, checkbook and credit cards gone. Prescription glasses gone. Plane tickets home, gone.

It was a supremely painful lesson, but I took heed. Being smart about my personal security moved up several notches in my priority list.

Do you see the daily warnings about changing your online passwords frequently, not using your pet’s name, remembering to change the default? Are you taking heed?

The proliferation of sites that require a login has forced us all to find ways of remembering a tornado of passwords.

And it’s not fun.

Yes, there are good services like LastPass and 1Password that will help you generate random passwords and retain newly created logins. But still, not fun.

Enter a new service called Clef.

For now, it’s primarily a free WordPress add-on. Once you download the app to your smartphone, it allows you to log in to your WordPress site by waving your phone in front of your computer screen.

Clef password app

When you click “sync” on your normal login page, Clef generates a cool animated signal wave. Open Clef on your phone (there’s a PIN) and it generates a similar animated wave. Hold it up for a second, and it syncs, giving a haptic buzz when it succeeds. You can choose to stay logged in permanently, or set a time frame. Clef will log you out automatically when the time runs out.

What if you lose your phone? Clef has a remote “lockdown” key. Just let them know the phone isn’t in your possession, and they will disable Clef on the phone.

Looks like the team at Clef is expanding into payment systems and additional platforms (it works with Hootsuite and a few others right now).

The only drawback I see is that you currently have to manually open the Clef app on your phone. It would be super cool if the mobile app automatically launched when you clicked login on the desktop screen.

Give it a spin and tell me what you think! What are you currently using to help you deal with your tornado of passwords?

Author’s Bio: Rosemary O’Neill is an insightful spirit who works for social strata — a top ten company to work for on the Internet . Check out the Social Strata blog. You can find Rosemary on Google+ and on Twitter as @rhogroupee

Disclosure: I have no affiliation with Clef, and received no consideration for this post. It represents my unvarnished opinion.

Influence and Leadership: Value For Your Audience Is The Key

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leadership key

When it comes to influence, leadership and creating results there are a lot of paths you can take.  How do you pick the right one?  How do you know how to measure influence?

What does being a truly successful leader really mean?

Great questions I also wondered about; so I called someone who walks the walk every day (and will be speaking at SOBCon this June) – Connie Dieken.   She was voted one of America’s Top 5 Speakers of 2012, 2011 and 2010 by Speaking.com, Connie is one of the nation’s most in-demand thought leaders on executive influence.  That being said; here’s where our amazing conversation recently went…

Before you can talk about influencing other people you have to ask yourself…

WHAT DO YOU VALUE?

Where we spend our time tells us what we value.  The way we spend three of our most important resources unlocks the answer to what we value most.  These three resources are:

  • Time
  • Effort
  • Money

EVERYTHING in life comes down to what you value; it’s the foundation of our days.  It’s important to start by understanding YOUR values.  Quick exercise for success:

Make a list of your top 3 values.  Write them down (or type them out) now.

This will not only help guide your efforts and goals but will also let you know who you should (and shouldn’t) align yourself with personally and professionally.  Once you discover your top 3 values demonstrate and live your values every day.  Don’t make people guess about you; tell them what you’re all about through your actions.

Once you start with yourself it’s time to ask…

WHAT DO THEY VALUE?

Values are not static; it depends on a person’s stage of life personally and professionally.  What you value changes dramatically after having your first child.  What you value at work changes after that promotion of career change.

So how can you discover other peoples’ top values?  Sure, you could ask them.  But according to Connie the best way is to watch what they DO; not just what they SAY.  It’s all about their pattern of action.  I’ve met a lot of people that will say they value giving back and helping other people – but never seem to volunteer or make time to help people that can’t help them.  You’ve probably met people that claim money isn’t important to them but seem to do anything they can to make more.

Discovering other peoples’ values is much easier with social media.  Patterns become more obvious quicker.

Start to notice peoples’ values.  Find the ones that line up with yours.  If you’re selling a product or service find the people who 1) value your product or service NOW and 2) prioritize your product or service high now; this means they’re willing to spend their time, money and efforts with you if you can help them.

Once you discover that it’s time to start…

GETTING ENGAGED

Once you understand the importance of personal values in relationships it’s time for the rubber to meet the road.  It’s time to start building your ideal network of advisors, customers, and strategic partners.  Doing this successfully is what real influence is all about – ongoing, mutually valuable relationships.

Remember with all the noise out there (online and offline) you have to show them why you’re valuable and important to them.  You don’t engage them; they engage themselves with your mission and message.  They are now in control.  You need to:

  1. CONNECT with what they value/their values
  2. CONVEY that you are offering them value by giving them what they want in the portions they want it in – not what you think they need.
  3. CONVINCE them to do something specific; get them to take action.

Those three steps are the catalyst to creating or reconnecting to a great professional relationship.  This is just the beginning; real relationships aren’t a one-off.  Real relationships are a quick fix.  You need to keep momentum alive and people need to choose to be in a relationship with you.

Who will YOU create a relationship with or reconnect with TODAY?

Connie-Dieken-SOBConConnie is the author and co-author of five books, dedicated to teaching individuals influential leadership, communication and presentation techniques. Her most recent bestselling book, Talk Less, Say More: 3 Habits to Influence Others and Make Things Happen, takes Connie’s knowledge, research and experience coaching high-powered leaders and condenses it into a fast-paced, no-nonsense guide to teach anyone to be an influential communicator with anyone, anywhere.

 

mark-j-carter-sobcon-headshotAbout The Author: Mark J. Carter is the founder of ONE80; his mission is bringing conversations & storytelling back to business… through mentoring (programs, events & marketing).  He currently serves as Vice President of Communications for the Chicago Area Chapter of Meeting Professionals International (MPI).

5 Reasons Temp Employees Will Replace One of Your Workers

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ahelp

It is true that people seek temporary employment mainly to earn some income, but some temp employees may also hope that their temporary jobs may lead to permanent employment.

A permanent job is desirable to temps, because it gives them a steady flow of income, a sense of security and an opportunity to develop a certain set of skills.

So, when your small business is hiring temp employees, you should also be open to the possibility that they may one day work for you on a permanent basis.

Here are 5 reasons why temp employees may replace your current employees:

Eligibility
Many people were laid off during the recent economic crisis, and some of them have extensive work experience and strong academic backgrounds. As such, you should not be surprised that some of the temp employees you hire may be more qualified and skilled in handling certain duties than some of your current employees. These temps can be a valuable asset to your company.

Performance
The abilities, industriousness and work ethics of temp employees can vary greatly. If you are fortunate, you may get temps who are committed to delivering competent performance. It is a good idea to offer high-performing temps permanent positions if some of your current employees are under-performing.

Motivation
The opportunity to get a permanent job can be a big motivational factor for temp employees. As such, they may be more willing to go the extra mile than your current employees. This can truly make them stand out in the workplace.

Employee Relations
Temp employees are less likely to develop a negative attitude towards their colleagues because they are less exposed to workplace politics. So, they are able to establish amiable relationships with their colleagues, which can contribute to a more harmonious work environment if they become permanent employees.

Safe Hiring Option
Another reason why you may consider replacing your current employees with temp employees is because you already know the work performance of your temps. If you have permanent employees who are underperforming, offering their jobs to your temp employees may be the safest solution.

Should Current Employees Fear that They Will Be Replaced?

Your current employees have a good reason to worry that they will be replaced by temp employees if they are lacking motivation and not performing according to expectations.

As long as they maintain a high level of competence, they will most likely be able to keep their jobs, unless you are planning to reduce your workforce. Temp employees who are really capable and hardworking can be a big threat to your current employees, but in the end, it comes down to who is more valuable to your company.

Whether they are hired on a temporary or permanent basis, all employees are essential to the success of your company.

If you are unsure whether or not to replace a permanent employee with a temp employee, just make a decision based on the best interest of why is small business management important, most notably for your company.

Photo credit: blog.intuit.com

About the author: John McMalcolm is a freelance writer who provides useful information and tips on small business management.

Connected Content. Get Some.

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By Lisa D. Jenkins

I live in a place that’s done a lot to embrace art in every day life. When I moved to Boise, I was giddy over the artist murals that cover the downtown traffic boxes. I have a favorite. It reminds me of a Miyazaki film.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend a gallery opening for the colleague of a friend. There were close to a dozen pieces on display and I was immediately drawn in by the artist’s palette – all blues and reds that remind me of lined, 3 ring binder notebook paper. I’ve a decidedly odd sense of humor and as I walked from piece to piece, I felt the glimmer of a connection.

Here was a gal I could relate to. I got her sly satirical wit. I recognized something familiar in the expressions she put on canvas. Art does that.

There was one piece in particular I couldn’t get out of my mind so the next week, I went to the gallery website to have another look. Imagine my surprise when I was looking through the artist’s bio and found an image of my favorite traffic box art. Same artist – Erin Ruiz.

Fare Thee Well Erin Rulz

The two pieces couldn’t be more different but I love them both and for me the connection was cemented. I wanted to own that piece in the gallery. The artists’ body of work, her content – found in two distinctly separate spaces, did that.

You can do that.

From your blog to Pinterest and Google+, the articles you publish, the images you post and the updates you share should all work together to spark and sustain that same feeling of recognition with people who want or need what you provide.

It’s not just a picture on Instagram, a link on Twitter or a result in someone’s Google search query. Every piece of content you publish is a touchstone; a neural reminder that your product or service is an option, that your unique approach lets you serve a specific customer in a way that complements their life or business.

Turn those content touchstones to converting stepping stones when you can. While the success of this ultimately lies within your strategy and the tactics you use, there are some simple things you can do to start connecting your content today.

  • Make sure every blog post you write includes at least one link to another piece of related content you’ve published. This will pull people deeper into your site and let you share just a bit more on the subject that interests your reader.
  • Add the link to a related article to the description of images you post to social networks. When people see an image that resonates with them, the link will drive traffic back to your site – to an article that links to another article. You see what I did there.
  • Secure your Google Authorship. Right now. This connects your name and face next to your content any time it shows up in a Google search result.

One could argue these are elementary content tactics. But sometimes it’s the simple things that trip us up – or move things forward.

Is your content connected?

Author’s Bio: Lisa D. Jenkins is a Public Relations professional specializing in Social and Digital Communications for businesses. She has over a decade of experience and work most often with destination organizations or businesses in the travel and tourism industry in the Pacific Northwest. Connect with her on Google+

6 Design Principles Every Blogger Should Be Familiar With

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By Teddy Hunt

As a successful blogger, you’re probably acutely aware that the best bloggers are the best content creators. But even the most top-notch content needs a reliable platform to capture its readers’ attention and make it in the blogosphere. Alas, most people do in fact judge books by their cover.

Here are a few key design principles that’ll help persuade your readers to open the book and enjoy your content.

The Fundamentals

No matter what medium you’re working with, the fundamental elements of design are the same:

• Hierarchy

• Contrast

• Repetition

• Shape

• Texture

Surely there are differentiations between print and digital media, but generally speaking, these principles make up the backbone of successful design. Careful implementation of each of these principles will ensure a well-received finished product.

Hierarchy

The design principle of hierarchy refers to the order in which information is processed by viewers. When it’s implemented effectively online, viewers can quickly scan a webpage to get an idea of what content they find interesting and what content they can disregard. When the hierarchy of a website is off, it seems jumbled; users are forced to look deeper into the site to find relevant content. When viewers can’t immediately recognize what they’re looking for, they’re more likely to click away. Subsequently, this trend will hurt your SEO rankings and cut down on the overall traffic to your site.

People generally follow a top-to-bottom, left-to-right eye path when they view websites; keep this in mind as you design your webpage.

Color/Contrast

Of course, contrast is the visible difference between elements. It can refer to color, texture, shape, style, and several other factors. A healthy dose of contrast can give a website the perfect mix of variety and interest. It’s helpful for drawing attention to specific aspects of your work. It can make certain design elements pop or fade into the background, depending on how you use them. Be mindful of your use of contrast as you critique your website and avoid having too much or too little differentiation in your color scheme.

Repetition

Much like contrast, repetition can refer to a variety of elements, including shape, size, color, and texture. It adds a sense of regularity to a design, enhancing the overall flow of the page. As with any design element, too much texture can be jarring or –worse — predictable. You can utilize repetition with similarly shaped objects and fonts. The repeated designs don’t have to be identical either; sometimes illustrations with similar qualities will suffice.

Possibly one of the most versatile design principles, shape actually applies to every other principle evenly. That is, everything is a shape. When it’s applied to web design, it’s important to keep in mind the overall tone you’re striving for, creating shapes that go together with an equal balance of contrast and repetition as well.

Texture is the surface perception of shape. It can be rough, smooth, soft, hard, glossy, or matte. But it’s much more than that. When it’s used well, texture gives any design, on any platform, that “finished” look. It’s easier to describe texture in a three-dimensional design: the feel of a canvas through paint thickness or the surface of a sculpture through carving techniques.

In visual designs, such as websites, texture is suggested and not felt.

Web designers can achieve visual textures through simulating the visible attributes of real-life textures by implementing shading and shadows, as well as mimicking the coloring of real objects. Often it’s achieved through the repetition of lines, marks, and strategically placed spacing. Bring texture into your website’s design and you’ll up the “wow” factor instrumentally.

As you can see, there’s a very thin veil between web design and traditional design. While certain key changes have to be made to accommodate digital platforms, everything that’s important for traditional designers is also key for web designers. Every blogger should be aware of these principles and use them on their sites.

Do you have any tips or tricks for using these design principles on your blog? Please feel free to share with us in the comments.

Author’s Bio: Teddy Hunt is a freelance content writer with a focus on technology. When not behind a computer, Teddy spends the majority of his free time outdoors and resides in Tampa, Florida.