An Experienced Web Designer's Guide to Client Processes with Katelyn Dekle
LIVE interview with Katelyn Dekle!
Katelyn Dekle from Launch the Damn Thing® and I sat down to spill the tea on clients, boundaries, processes, systems, and what it takes to thrive in a web design career.
Together, we have a combined 35+ years of experience working with clients! 🤯
If you're currently a designer--or you've been considering becoming one-Catch the replay!
What We Discussed:
✨ How we got started
📚 Realities of web design (client boundaries, process tips, etc)
💻 Marketing & getting clients
💡 Design trends & inspiration
🎨 Design techniques
🔑 Building your own community
Summary:
Meet the Hosts
Diane Whiddon is the founder of Sway Rise Creative. She's a seasoned pro in designing for service-based businesses and entrepreneurs, with a knack for Squarespace design and site functionality that converts visitors into clients.
Katelyn Dekle runs Launch the Damn Thing®. She's all about fast, fabulous web design. Her journey from corporate burnout to successful web designer is inspiring, and her bold, authentic approach has clearly struck a chord with clients.
Business Approaches: Two Paths to Success
While Diane and Katelyn share core values like excellent customer experiences and killer design, they run their businesses quite differently. Let's break it down:
Client Management
Katelyn's Approach:
No emails during projects
All communication in a designated portal
No phone calls, Slack, or WhatsApp
Diane's Approach:
Allows email communication, but no feedback via email
Strict two-revision limit
Emphasizes the importance of upfront client information
Project Timelines
Katelyn's Two-Week Process:
Monday: Kickoff call
Wednesday: Homepage draft
Friday: Full website draft
Week two: Revisions and launch prep
Diane's Flexible Timeline:
Offers design days for focused work
Juggles multiple projects
Thrives on variety and flexibility
Getting Clients: SEO vs. Social Media
Katelyn's Strategy: Weekly SEO-friendly blog posts Diane's Approach: Social media engagement with sporadic blogging
Handling Client Feedback
Both emphasize clear communication and setting expectations upfront. Interestingly, neither has had a client hate their site!
Design Inspiration
Katelyn: Relies on client-created Pinterest boards Diane: Asks clients for sample websites they love and why
DIY Site Builders: A Threat?
Neither Diane nor Katelyn is worried. They believe professional designers will always be in demand for businesses looking to elevate their brand.
Key Takeaway
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to web design business. Find what works for you and your clients.
