When the Client Doesn't Love Your "Perfect" Design

As instructional designers, we’re wired to solve problems. We meet briefly with a client, gather the pieces of what they want, and then we go into creative mode. We brainstorm. We storyboard. We build something we believe is the perfect solution.

And then it happens—our client doesn’t like it.

That sting can cut deep. Suddenly, the doubt creeps in: Maybe I’m not as good as I thought. Maybe I misunderstood. Maybe I don’t belong here. Hello, imposter syndrome.

But here’s the truth: this moment isn’t the end of your credibility—it’s the start of collaboration.

Step 1: Take a Breath Before You React

• It’s easy to feel defensive when your hard work is met with criticism. But remember: your client’s “no” isn’t a rejection of you. It’s feedback on a product. The two are not the same. Take a deep breath, set aside the sting, and get curious instead of reactive.

Step 2: Clarify, Don’t Assume

Often, what clients say they want and what they actually mean don’t line up perfectly. If your design missed the mark, that doesn’t mean you failed—it means there’s still information hiding beneath the surface. Ask open-ended questions:

• Can you tell me what doesn’t feel right to you?

• What outcome are you hoping to see?

• If you could change one thing, what would it be?

Step 3: Reframe the Narrative in Your Head

Imposter syndrome thrives on “I’m not good enough.” But the reality is, iterating is part of design. Rarely does the first draft hit the bullseye. Your ability to listen, adapt, and reframe is exactly what makes you a professional. Every “miss” is just a step toward a stronger solution.