Are consultation fees an important first step to qualify leads, or do they keep your ideal client at arm’s length? Two designers make their case.

Listen and Learn

During the consultation, my role is simple: I listen. I’m paying attention to how the client wants to use each space and how they want their home to feel. I’m also watching out for red flags—especially when it comes to how the decision makers treat each other, their children, me and my staff. Most importantly, I listen to my gut. Is this a fit based on project size, personality, aesthetic and budget? I sleep on it, then ask myself whether I am trying to make it work because I like the budget or need the work, or if it is truly a good fit. In short, the consultation is an interview just as much as me selling my services.