Every project will come with its’ own set of challenges. These could be client complaints, mistakes, delays and so on. Challenges are inevitable, what is key, is how you respond. You will get better at this as your experience increases. To help you get on a solid start, we have outlined the successful ways we deal with these issues.

1. Delays from your end: Be clear and honest about timelines. If you are working alone, or you are a small team, you need to be honest with yourselves about how much work you can get done within a specific time. Read more about this in the following article (link to What we learned on our first project).  You may misjudge this, and if you do, notify the necessary parties as early as possible to minimise disappointment.

• Delays from other parties: delays in furniture orders, or by suppliers and contractors, are quite common. We highly recommend that you continually follow-up so you have up-to-date information that you can relay to your client and vice versa. However, there will be instances when a delay is out of your hands. The simplest way to deal with this is by having updated information and clear expectations. During lockdown, our clients experienced major delays in their furniture orders because of furlough and shortage in supplies. They were incredibly unhappy. We explained the situation – that it is out of our hands, and that we will be following up with the suppliers daily. We updated our clients with this information continuously. We spoke with our suppliers who were also under a great deal of pressure by many designers. Be professional with everyone you deal with. Sometimes, circumstances dictate, and you must adapt as you go.

• Budget: Ensure your client clearly states the budget, and work within this. If a client requests a design or material that will go over the budget, you must inform them and get their approval in writing (via email). For instance, we worked with a client who decided they want a fireplace unit that would go over their budget by £20k. Once this was discussed and agreed on, we moved forward.

• Furniture and material mishaps: If furniture arrives damaged, take images, and send them to the supplier. Request a replacement or request a pick-up to get it fixed. If a material is deemed unsuitable, is low in stock, or simply needs to be changed, manage the situation by being prompt in resolving it. Once the client sees prompt action, they will be understanding and at ease.

• Client complaints: The best way to avoid client disappointment is by having clear expectations, a contract, and various other factors we have outlined in the following post (link to What we learned on our first project). If a client is unhappy, find out what the problem is and work with your client/supplier/contractor to find a solution. Being prompt, understanding and professional is the best way to resolve issues.
• Indecisive clients: If the client is hesitant and keeps changing their mind about what they want, you need to make it clear that this will lead to delays. We had a client that changed their mind multiple times, which delayed the entire project. Being clear will ensure they are fully informed and do not blame you or the supplier/contractor.

The more projects you do, the more you will face and learn. Your skills will develop steadily, and it will get easier to navigate any challenge that comes your way. Stay confident and remember that this is all part of the process. Good luck!