From a book i'm reading

It's called "How to be a graphic designer without loosing your soul" by Adrian Shaughnessy.

The quote is a long one and mostly a note to myself. It goes:

"The designer who shows only signs of self-absorption and narrowness of focus isn't going to inspire his or her client. It might seem obvious, but it's surprising how many designers use meetings with clients to talk about themselves and their work.
These are often the same designers who complaing that their work is frequently rejected or that they are never allowed to "do what they want to do" [...]
If you can demonstrate some knowledge about the client's field of activity, if you can talk about the project at hand and if you can listen instead of prattling on about yourself, you will be astonished at how receptive your new client will be to you and your ideas.
It's a rich paradox, but the less you make a client/designer relationship about yoursel, the more it will tip in your favour."