The development of creative work from concept through to finished product is the whole point of being a designer. Some designers believe they work better unfettered by the strictures of a client brief, but the contrary is true. Counterintuitively, the best way to liberate creative people is to give them a robust brief.

Ever jumped through new-business hoops for a prospect who, it turns out, had no intention of hiring you? Here’s how you can identify and deal with these time-wasters.

They may not tell you, but clients expect—even demand—things from the creative firms they work with. Learn how to meet and exceed those expectations.

New-business presentations are the make-or-break opportunity to win clients, but many creatives lack the skills to deliver great pitches. Three pros identify the pitfalls and share the secrets of winning in the boardroom.

A veteran designers shares hard-learned advice on how to wrangle nitpicky, indecisive and flat-out boneheaded clients—before a showdown occurs.

How many clients should you serve? In what categories? And where? Three consultants who work exclusively with creative firms offer advice to help you develop the ideal client mix for your business.

Linda Fisher, president of Design Management Resources, shares her tips on focusing your design business.

Now more than ever, your firm needs sound strategies for attracting new clients. New-business expert Morgan Shorey outlines nine approaches and tells you how to choose the right one for your company.

How do you keep established clients from defecting to cheaper firms? Simple: Become the essential partner your clients can't live without. A veteran designer and a management consultant offer eight tips on staying connected.

That prospective client you're eyeing may—or may not—be the right fit for your firm. Understand what makes for the ideal mix of clients.