How do you deal with an indecisive client?

Indecisive clients are everywhere. It’s a pretty safe bet that you will encounter one (or more) at some point in your career. This week, we asked seven designers—Ashley Ayer, Tom Bartlett, Niki Cavallo, Susanne Lichten Csongor, Jessica Prier, Deborah Silver Fagel and Marissa Stokes—how they handle homeowners who have trouble taking the plunge.

Jessica Prier

SET EXPECTATIONS “It helps to set expectations from the very beginning with a clear and concise process. When you start with a very organized and professional direction, it builds trust with the client. While they may not trust their own selections, they begin to trust you. Outlining terms in contractslike ‘Two revisions included’ and ‘All sales are final once it’s approved for ordering’ really help set clear expectations. Showing the selections of the entire room while also presenting the whole house at once also shows them that you have thought through the details, and allows them to make informed decisions. A one-off selection tends to be overthought and questioned more.” —Jessica Prier, Birmingham Design House, Vestavia Hills, Alabama.

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