HOW TO GENERATE WORK COMMISSIONS
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Eve has found that posting photos of her work on Instagram has spread the word about what she does – and commissions have followed. ‘The more you engage with people the better, as instantly you are approachable, and customers have confidence and belief in buying from and commissioning you,’ says Caroline Jackman, talent development manager at the Crafts Council. She gives her top tips for artists and makers to keep the commissions coming in…
USE SOCIAL MEDIA ‘Instagram can be your best friend if you use it in the right way to suit your business and target audiences. We recommend you plan ahead with curating how you want your social platform to work for you. If your post does not support your marketing objectives, don’t post it. Offer interactive conversations, hashtags and links to encourage people to direct message you. First impressions last, so always consider that any conversation could lead to a potential client.’
PRESENT YOUR WORK WELL Careful preparation is key to being professional. ‘If responding to a brief, then provide good, relevant visuals of your proposal and a CV of your past experience. If you are new to working to commission and you don’t have examples of past made-to-order work, we recommend you provide a detailed outline of how you would achieve the project, providing the commissioner with the evidence they require.’
WORK OUT THE COST Be able to accurately price a job. ‘Listen to your client – what are they asking for exactly, and can you fulfil the brief within their budget?’ says Caroline. ‘What particular assurances and details are they asking for? If you want to be competitive in applying for a commission, what additional research can you do that will give you the competitive edge? Be really thorough and concise in your proposals. Budget correctly and never assume your client understands the processes you use.’
SHARE THE COMMISSIONING PROCESS FROM START TO FINISH ‘Assume your client has not commissioned anything before, so explain your work process from start to finish. We recommend you draw up a letter of agreement. This can be a simple form outlining anything you have already discussed – for example, if you were doing a painting commission, note down what has been agreed in the quote, such as framing, photography, deposit if required and by when, delivery costs and estimated completion date.
It’s worth drafting up an agreement with people you know as well as new clients, so that there are no misunderstandings.’
KEEP COMMUNICATING Stay in touch with your commissioner until you’ve finished the piece. ‘Having a good relationship with a commissioner is of the utmost importance,’ says Caroline. ‘It’s ideal if they can visit your studio, but if that isn’t possible, use Skype or Whatsapp, with regular email and phone follow-ups. If you need to change anything from the original agreement, such as unforeseen increases in delivery costs or a change to the delivery date, always keep your client informed and gain agreement first in writing.’ craftscouncil.org.uk