Parc Entertainment - A Video Production Company - Birmingham, AL

We all take pride in the work we do, but our self-confidence can be shaken in a heartbeat when someone responds negatively to a project that we’ve devoted so much time and attention to. The creative world is a subjective one. Someone might look at a video and deem it a masterpiece. Someone else might look at the same video and ridicule it. Criticism hurts, but its affect on our future work can be either positive or negative, depending on how we respond.

• Some clients will always be deconstructive. There might be some clients out there who will never be happy, regardless of what you present to them. If you find that a client is constantly tearing your work apart, without offering any suggestions for improvement, it might be time to end the relationship. Perhaps there is a personality conflict. Perhaps your style doesn’t mesh with their vision. Whatever the reason, it might be time to refer them to someone else.
• Criticism can help you improve. Some clients genuinely want to offer up their opinions to help you create the best work possible. Early in my career I had a client that took a chance on me. He saw my potential and hired me. I was excited to work on the project, but when I submitted a rough cut, I received a call from my client who said he hated it. I instantly felt sick to my stomach. The following weeks were difficult for me as I tried re-cut after re-cut. He responded to each version with a long list of changes. Although the project was frustrating and stressful, I can confidently say that the client helped me improve the quality of my work. Today, my clients are incredibly pleased with the videos I deliver.

Receiving criticism is never fun, regardless of the spirit in which it is given. But we need to use criticism in a positive way. Let it motivate you to view your own work from a different perspective. Let it encourage you to try new things. Let it challenge you to better yourself.

During my high school acting days I remember one rehearsal in particular when my director was giving me specific notes about my performance. I felt that her criticism wasn’t justified and I tried to defend myself. She gave me some advice that day that I always apply to my business. She told me simply to listen to direction and not to make excuses.

In your career as a business owner or freelancer, you will have clients who aren’t entirely satisfied with the work. That can be a harsh fact, because of the pride people take in their work. However, when a client has concerns, it’s important to remember that the client doesn’t want to hear excuses - even when the problem is not your fault. Here are some things to remember:

RESPOND PROMPTLY - Avoiding a discussion with your client won’t make the problem go away. Acknowledge their concerns by returning their call and/or email quickly.

LISTEN ATTENTIVELY - You might not consider the client’s concerns to be very serious, but they do. Listen to what they have to say and don’t dismiss them. Ask questions. Make notes. Show them that you are eager and willing to correct the problem.

OFFER SOLUTIONS - Give your client options as to how the problem can be rectified and assure your client that you will take the steps necessary to ensure satisfactory results.

It can be very difficult to accept criticism, but running a successful business depends on your ability to meet those challenges and satisfy your clients.