The author Ann Landers once said, “There are really only three types of people: those who make things happen, those who watch things happen, and those who say…What happened?” Which of these people-types reflects you and your design team’s current behaviours – the proactive, reactive or generally inactive? * There is only me in my team, on a full-time basis anyway Simon, but I would like to say I aspire to the 1st – for my sins. * So long as you’re proactive to all of the above you may be alright. Watch, question, deliver. * Personally, being a ‘driver’...

“Your views on how designers build ‘valued’ relationships with their existing and/or prospective clients.” * Offer attractive retainers. * Research & build a body of knowledge & future trend predictions within a sector, (that can also hold Intellectual Property) and interpret & apply that knowledge & trends to businesses within the sector. Use that to open up the door to client businesses you wish to work for and seek to elevate your business to ‘partner’ status not merely a supplier selling their wares. Consider different ways of doing business that do not rely purely on fees for services. * Understand...