"What would make this project a success?" is a question I ask toward the end of the initial phone call I have with a prospective client. It usually garners a pause followed by a rewarding answer. I think most of us intuitively know what we want out of a remodeling project. But do we often succinctly verbalize that? I find this question to be incredibly valuable not only for me, but for the homeowner as well.
I asked this question on a phone call today and learned so much about the project. In this case "success" means having a place for the family to gather and relax without toys and to finally use the fireplace. Prior to this I wasn't aware that toys in the room were an issue. And discovering that the fireplace (which is to become a real focal point) hadn't ever been used by the homeowners was surprising. So now I know that the mood for that room is to be uncluttered and warm and inviting.
Had the answer to this question been "I want the lowest price" then I would know that our company wouldn't be a fit since we value lasting materials and quality workmanship. Had it been "I want it done before July 4 for a party I'm having" then that would have set a timeline. Or, "I want green walls and a pink floor" - well that would be interesting!
A succinct response to this question really helps set the tone and direction of a project. And I will argue that the larger the project, the more important this answer. Furthermore, each stakeholder will have a different definition of "success" and if we can deliver it for each of them then we have really done our job well.
Serving Lorain and Cuyahoga Counties: Avon, Avon Lake, Bay Village, Lakewood, Rocky River, Sheffield, Westlake, and more.
© 2023 House to Home Cleveland, LLC. All rights reserved.