Template:

3 Tricky Client
Conversations,Explained
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Championing your style and pushing back against requests to adapt
your work can feel a bit like crossing an invisible line. As professionals,
it’s part of our job to carry out a client’s requests. There may be little
you can do to change someone's mind or to sway the direction of aproject, but in others, clear communication can take you far.
In this section, we provide templates that you can use as conversation
starters for four scenarios. Refer back to our Warm Up for more
information!

This template came from Tyrus, a free digital toolkit from Airbnb Design.
To learn about Tyrus and find more downloadable templates, visit tyrus.design.
Feel free to edit this template and utilize it for your own purposes.

:Belo: Tyrus

1.

Use this template if you haven’t updated your portfolio, and a client gets intouch referencing outdated work.
Hello!
Thanks for reaching out.
After reviewing your moodboard, I’m realizing the work you provided from myportfolio reflects an older style I don’t utilize as much anymore.
I’d be happy to work with you in my more updated style—please see thework attached for reference. I feel confident we can find a happy in-between.
Looking forward to discussing further!

2.

Use this template if you’re questioning whether you’re the right style fit for a
job—but you’re up for the challenge of trying something new.
Hello _________________,
Thanks so much for reaching out and for your question about my styleflexibility.
While I tend to only work in [insert style or type of illustration], I’d be curious tohear more about your project’s needs. My work tends to lean more toward[insert direction], but I’d be happy to take on [insert client’s request].
However, because this style is a departure from what I normally do, it’s likely
I’ll need more time to execute the work.
Happy to discuss details whenever it’s convenient!

3.

Use this template if you’ve been asked to emulate another illustrator’s style.

Hello _________________,
Thank you for sending over your moodboard.
As I look over the images here, I’m seeing that a lot of the work pictured is notreflective of the style shown in my portfolio. While I’m happy to discuss whatmakes these particular illustrations compelling, I’d love to talk more about how
I can help craft work for your company that feels truly unique to your needs.
Let’s hop on a call to chat about the best way to move forward!

4.

Use this template if you’re reaching out to your dream client.

Hello _________________,
My name is [insert name] and I’m a [insert the medium you use or a short
descriptor, like “watercolor artist who primarily focuses on landscape”].
I’m a long-time admirer of your work, particularly [insert a project or illustration
that’s caught your eye]. In my own practice, I’ve completed a few projects I feelmatch the type of content your company does so well. You can find examples
in my portfolio [insert link to website].
I would love to discuss a potential collaboration if your team is open to newwork. I’d also be happy to share more about what I do if you’re interested.
Thanks in advance for your time—I look forward to hearing from you!