What Clients Actually Mean When They Say “Make It Pop”
Few phrases inspire as much collective frustration as “make it pop.” It is vague, subjective, and rarely helpful on its surface.
And yet, it persists.
Hearing the Real Request
When a client asks for something to pop, they are rarely asking for sparkle or novelty. They are expressing uncertainty.
They want clarity. Confidence. Assurance that the message will be noticed and understood.
The phrase is a symptom, not the problem.
Translating Ambiguity
Designers earn trust by translating vague requests into actionable solutions.
Instead of reacting to the phrase, it helps to ask what is not working. Is the hierarchy unclear. Is the focal point weak. Is the message getting lost.
Once the real issue is identified, the solution becomes obvious.
Solving the Right Problem
Making something louder rarely fixes it. Making it clearer often does.
Strong contrast, intentional hierarchy, and purposeful emphasis accomplish what “pop” is meant to describe without resorting to gimmicks.
When the design communicates effectively, the phrase disappears.
Confidence Replaces the Request
As trust builds, vague feedback diminishes. Clients learn to articulate goals rather than aesthetics.
The work improves. The conversations improve. Everyone moves faster.
The best response to “make it pop” is not defensiveness. It is understanding.
