On the Ask Us Anything podcast, editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen taps former Trade Tales guests to answer real, confidential designer questions, offering a safe space to discuss business frustrations, conundrums and fears. (Have a question of your own to ask? Send an email to start the conversation.)

During a special event at High Point Spring Market, designers Arianne Bellizaire and Cortney Bishop joined host Kaitlin Petersen in the Four Hands showroom for the first-ever live episode of Ask Us Anything, responding to three anonymous designer questions—plus audience queries—and sharing advice in real time.

First up, the pair took on a question about managing the client intake process from a designer who was also wondering how soon is too soon to start discussing fees. Bellizaire offered guidance on how to get the money conversation started as soon as possible and explained how she uses her website to qualify leads and outline potential project costs. Bishop jumped in to explain how her business manager facilitates the early phases of the vetting process, then passes prospective clients to her to address financial concerns and deeper design considerations.

The next query dealt with an unreliable contractor on a remote project. Bishop recommended extensive documentation to protect your firm, and shared strategies for staying in constant communication with contractors every step of the way. She also counseled the audience to keep any contractor drama far away from clients. For her part, Bellizaire suggested testing the chemistry between a design firm and a client-recommended contractor before signing on, and honing early processes and procedures for future job-site relationships.

The third anonymous advice-seeker was looking for tips on scaling the receiving process. As a designer who launched her own receiving business, Bishop started the conversation with a unique perspective on how to deliver a higher level of service for clients. Then both designers fielded questions from the audience on topics ranging from building a design team and discussing photography with reluctant clients to ensuring there’s an accessories budget left over at the end of the project.

Crucial insight: Bishop explained that she established her own shipping and storage operation as a result of her desire to deliver a better client experience. “For me, it was quality control and having a complete and thorough experience for my clients that does not leave anything to question or anything that could go wrong—and as designers or people working in this field, you know how many things can go wrong,” she told the audience. “The end of the project is the time when the client is going to remember truly how they feel about the results of working with you.”

Key quote: On the importance of client chemistry, Bellizaire explained: “I have gotten really honest with myself and said: I cannot sell the job … without paying attention to the fact that I am married to this client for life. I am now part of their story, so I’m looking for projects that excite me and that are going to keep my interest for the duration. I’m looking for a disposition of a client that feels centered and aligned, and someone who has lived life and appreciates professionalism.”

This episode was sponsored by Four Hands and Crypton. If you like what you hear, subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.