What standard do you want to operate at?
This is a question I ask most of my clients early in our engagement. The answers vary and it informs how we work together.
I have a tendency towards getting things done, then making them better over time.
In most cases, “80% perfect” is enough to get great outcomes reasonably quickly. We can perfect things later once you get some results in the door.
But for others, their standards for what they ship to the world are set much higher. Say, 95%+ or nothing.
Maybe these companies have a brand and reputation that depends on the utmost quality in all things. After all, Rolex would never put out an 80% perfect marketing campaign, right?
Chances are, though, your clients aren’t Rolex. They’re a small to medium-sized business with much to accomplish.
The real thing you need to decide together is whether it’s strategy or fear creating those perfectionist tendencies.
It’s usually the latter.
The trade-off to aiming for 95% perfection is time and money. Most small businesses have neither luxury to waste.
If your clients expecting 95% and you’re aiming to deliver 80% to get results reasonably quickly, both of you will end up frustrated.
Ask the question so you’re playing the same game.