Freelance Graphic Designers - How Can Naming Your Files Affect Your Client's Thoughts and Behavior?

For most freelancers, naming proof files that are sent to the client for review is a pretty innocuous event - they call the file poster.jpg, logos.png or something along those lines. For most freelancers sending files to a client, there's really not a lot of thought that goes into it - just call the file whatever you want and email that sucker over to the client.

For me though, I've used this as an opportunity to keep myself organized as well as influence and even shape the behavior of the client...much like using the "Jedi Mind Trick" for all of you Star Wars freaks. Sound silly?

Let's look at a couple of my naming conventions compared to the two examples listed above - here's how I label files:

• JudyWalters_5x7FullColorAd_rd3.pdf
• APN_logos_finalProofbeforePrinting_rd9.jpg
• LinkAges_16x20Poster_finalCorrections_rd8.pdf
• JudyWalters_5x7_veryRoughDraft_FullColorAd_rd1.pdf

Nothing special on the surface, right?
No, there isn't, but there are some subtle but powerful hints going on just below the surface!

Notice that in each of my examples I indicate what revision round the client is in? There's of course a reason for this since clients tend to "forget" how many times they've asked their freelancer to make changes to the project. With this approach I let them know every single time. This allows me to bring the matter to the client's attention if she/he starts to abuse their privilege of making changes (it also helps keep track of my billing).

You'll also notice that I let the client know in some cases that make a point to tell the client what stage of the project we're in: in two examples I use the word "FINAL", which tactfully let's them know where I think the project is (like it's TIME to give the approval, dude).

I've also use the phrase, "Very Rough Draft" to subtly let the client know not to expect a masterpiece when they open the file. In either case, I am influencing...albeit very subtly, the attitude and expectations the client will have on my work. Try it...it works.

If you liked the idea please consider reposting, tweeting, digging the article so other freelancers can enjoy it as well. For you guys that do this on a regular basis, thank you!

PS - thanks to Inspiredology - Design inspiration lab, for adding me to his "Friday Fix" post today...scroll down a little and you'll find me.

Thanks for adding me to the mix Chad, glad you're enjoying the books! By the way, if you're not following this guy on Twitter or you're not getting a feed from Inspiredology, you should be - great resource.