It's not a one-size-fits-all world. Not everyone is going to fall in love with your art. In fact, most
people won't. Fortunately, you didn't make it for them. You made it
for yourself--because you had to. Still, there are things you can do to
tap into what might not be considered your "usual" audience. At the top
of the list: offer options.
Offering options gives people more of
a sense of control, while also letting you hold onto the reins. After all, you're choosing which options to present. Here are some
examples.
1. Payment Plans
Set up so that people can pay by cash, check, credit cards, and PayPal.
Most people have a preference. Don't you? You wouldn't want to eliminate
an entire group of people because you insist on doing business the same
way you always have.
Also, offer to allow people to pay in
installments or to "rent to own" as long as it works for you. If trust
hasn't been fully established, you might want to set delivery date of
the artwork after the final payment has been received. As always, a
written letter of agreement should accompany the deal.
2. Commissions
When you're writing a proposal, don't write it so that your client can
only respond with a "yes" or "no." Write it so she can see clearly the
difference between the options and choose what works for her. For
example, if you make outdoor sculpture, you might present a selection
that includes more detail, increased size, or a more protective finish. Write with authority so clients can easily discern the increased
value between the lower- and upper-end prices.
3. Presentation
Show your work in various framing and matting styles. If you make
three-dimensional work, offer a variety of pedestals or show how lower
relief work might be hung on a wall.
| KNOW THIS |
People like to be in
control. |
| THINK ABOUT THIS |
Offering options gives
people the chance to be part of the process. |
| DO THIS |
Offer options. You only need two or
three. Any more than that might lead to confusion and
indecision. |
|
