What Makes a Web Designer Successful?

What do you think makes a web designer successful? As a web design consultant, I learned very early that simply being talented is not enough. The ability to manage business relationships and deal with people are critical tools in running a successful web design consultancy. I found a few excellent ideas on this matter in an article written by Dave Rogers, entitled The Usable Consultant. He highlighted a few key practices of effective consultants:

Usable consultants listen obsessively. Listening is the telltale sign of humility, of consultants who readily admit they don't know everything about you and your company.

Usable consultants generously share knowledge and information. They love what they do and can't resist talking about it. They're passionate evangelists of their areas of expertise. They get a kick out of educating others.

Usable consultants don't boilerplate. Usable consultants recognize that no company is like another. Each has unique characteristics and needs that a boilerplate proposal or process cannot address. This doesn't preclude reusing material by any means (one of the strengths of consultants is that they have developed effective methods), but it should always be tailored to your situation and needs.

Usable consultants join the team. They recognize that consulting begins with relationships. They place a high premium on being a part of the project team. They're enthusiastic about onsite meetings. They meet deadlines and promptly return phone calls and e-mails. They may even fail on occasion, just like other team members-but are quick to make amends.

Usable consultants help you achieve goals. They recognize that what is a single engagement to them is your life's work. They strive to ensure that both you and the project fully succeed.

I think this is an excellent shortlist of the business skills of successful web design consultants. What are your thoughts on this? Leave a comment!