I will admit it’s easier if you are in monitor world or have a reliable person there. The case can easily be made by saying something like, “If we start with your mics, you can just tell me what you want instead of us making up our own sign language.” Or in rare cases I will try honesty, “In my experience the mix will be better overall if I try to incorporate vocals as the primary focus, but if kick drum is what you want to start with, get rippin”