The first client is always the most important, but also the most challenging. No matter how prepared you think you are, you will always learn something new from each client and how to incorporate that into your processes with future clients. With this in mind, you don’t want to ‘wing’ everything the first time around, because it can come off as unprofessional and will raise red flags for your clients. This blog will help you create a baseline for where to start with your client and how to create a lasting first impression.
Prepare a List Beforehand
It’s a good idea to have a list of questions (and some answers too) for your meeting with new clients. This will help you seem more prepared for the meeting, and make it easy to ask all the questions you need prior to starting any work. It’s likely that new clients will also have a list of questions for you, so if you prepare some answers to a few expected questions, you will appear more confident and knowledgeable than if you were to just answer on the spot with vague answers and probably lacking certainty.
Having a list can also help the meeting flow better, and allow you to be more attentive to what the client is actually saying — as opposed to racking your brain for your next follow up question.
For more examples of questions, make sure you read our blog on the Top 5 Things You Should Discuss With New Clients before starting work.
Do Your Research
Before you engage in any contract work for a new business, it’s a good idea to always do some research on your own. A quick Google search can typically bring up websites, social media pages, reviews, and more. When you’re trying to get a better understanding of a company and what products or services they offer, it’s important to take this first step prior to scheduling any meetings. It’s also a great way to see if your values and ethics are in alignment with the client.
Background research can also spark follow up questions for the client, what their business does and what you can do for them.
Have Resources On-Hand
During your first meeting with a new client, you’ll typically get asked questions about what services you offer, pricing, your background, and so on — somewhat similar to what you want to know from the client. Having resources available to refer to will make you seem more professional and encourage the client to feel confident in your skills. This will also give them the opportunity to learn more about everything you can offer and they might even come across something they hadn’t considered before.
Some resources we recommend always having with you are:
A list of services
Your price list
Some other companies you have worked with or work you have done (your portfolio)
Your background and certifications
The best way for people to communicate with you (to make it easier for you to keep track of your communication logs with clients)
A good way to prepare for these meetings is to analyze the questions you will be asking the client, and also answer them yourself in the event that the client will follow up your questions by reverting them back to you.
Ultimately, it’s important to note that your first client will set the tone for your future work, testimonials, and how they spread the word about your business to others. Being as prepared as possible is the best way to reflect professionalism and confidence in your work.
For any questions or comments, please contact us using the contact form on our website. Also, be sure to follow TVL on social media to stay up to date with everything travel, lifestyle and living the VA life!
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