Dear Client: This Book Will Teach You How to Get What You Want from Creative People

By all means, think of as many contingencies as you can, but build in extra room for the unknown in both the schedule and budget anyway. (For the latter, an extra 10 percent in the lockbox is a comfortable cushion.)

Be prepared.

Because decisions around design, copy, video, and the like are subjective, people with little expertise tend to feel more confident sharing an opinion.

Be optimistic.

Reference images can also help where words fail—especially valuable in architectural or interior design projects.

Be transparent.

That said, I believe work required beyond the scope of the contract (see No. 23, “Expect the Unexpected”) should generally be billed by the hour (at a rate stipulated in the contract).

Jon Stewart attributed the success of The Daily Show and its contributors to “a clarity of vision, but a flexibility of process.” That combination allowed magic to happen while a clear focus was maintained. This is a pretty good start for all creative endeavors.

Once you’ve spoken on the phone (and, ideally, met in person), ask any potential collaborator for a project proposal.