Create a Style Questionnaire to Better Understand Your Client
When I embark on a branding process with any new client, I like to start with giving them a style Questionnaire. This tool allows me to have an insight into their likes and dislikes. I create a survey using Survey Money, as the easy-to-use app can handle multiple choice questions, images, and open-ended questions to gather all the information I need. To better reflect my brand and to provide easy access, I embed the survey directly onto my website.
So, why do a Style Questionnaire at all? I’ve found that 5 Simple questions can immediately tell you what kind of style a client gravitates toward. Each survey is tailored to the client, as I’ve met them once or twice and know what kinds of questions to ask. Meeting someone in person can give you insights to someones style, but in today’s virtual world, meetings can’t always be face-to-face. I have also learned that some clients are more bold with their company or brand than they ever would be with their personal style. Though often, after fully embracing their brand, you will see it sneak into their every day style whether they are aware of it or not.
Here are the FIVE general questions I use to guide my clients in a better understanding of their own style.
Font Preference - put THEIR company name into a Script, San Serif, Serif and Decorative font
Color Palettes - Put together a dark, light, neutral, bold color palette
Advertising Styles - pick ads from their industry that have different styles
Patterns - use a variety of patterns - their answer will help you see their style AND color preference
Fun option - home decor: have your client choose a pillow, or lamp, or wall art that speaks to them. This will give you some insight into their personality when choosing their decorating which can often lead to how they feel about their brand identity
Example Survey:
After the client completes the survey, I look over the results by myself and write my initial impression from their choices. If something surprised me, I make a note to ask WHY they chose what they did so I can better understand what drew them to that decision.
Once I have the results, I get started on my next step of the design process: Style Options. Want to read more about creating a killer design process? Click Here.
What questions do you ask your clients when preparing a design project? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!