Maintaining design jobs in the pipeline is the bane of many designers’ existences. Let’s face it: Closing deals just isn’t what drew the visually gifted to this field. Luckily, it’s not as unnatural as you might think.

According to sales coach John Livesay, “the pitch” can be broken down into these essential parts:

1| Gut, Heart, HeadRight from the start, the pitch should be trying to win over the client’s trust (gut reaction); they should be empathizing with you (heart); and they should be able to determine if hiring you will work for them (head).

2| Design PresentationGive design details without being too specific. The focus should still be on how the design elements will benefit the client.