Meeting client expectations is a huge part of your business so good communication is a must. Listen more than you speak and create unique solutions that work for you and your client. These mini Gouda Grits and Gulf Shrimp were served at a cocktail party at the clients request to have their favorite entree dish represented at an event where passing was the only option.
Over the years I’ve reworked so many dishes that it’s become second nature, but when you’re starting out this can create a lot of stress. As it should be a client is only concerned with the end result and seeing their vision become a reality. Unfortunately, there will come a time when your clients vision and the reality of execution will not be aligned. It is your job to manage that. Handled incorrectly, it can create a bad experience for you and your client. What can you do to avoid this?
- Listen very closely to your client without judgement so you can come up with a solution that works for you both.
- Be completely honest about what you can and can’t do by setting realistic expectations.
- Explain your ideas in simple terms that your client can understand. Remember, you are a culinary expert so things that seem clear and obvious to you may not be so clear to your client.
- Put everything in writing and by writing I mean a document. A series of texts, DM’s or even and e-mail chain is not acceptable because it is very easy to lose track of the details when the chain becomes too long. A dedicated document is key to better communication.
If you follow these tips you will find that your job becomes a lot easier. As an entrepreneur you will have plenty of uncontrolled stress filled moments so take control where you can.