How to Speak With a Client

Communication is everything when meeting a new client.

Whether you are a freelancer or a business owner, nothing is more vital to your success than maintaining a good relationship with your client. Keeping clear channels of communication helps to ensure that the client is happy with your work and that you are compensated accordingly for your services. Whether you are communicating online, over the phone or in person following a few basic guidelines will help you maintain a healthy client base.

Instructions

1. Be honest about your abilities and your limitations. While you may want to impress your client, making promises you can't deliver will come back to hurt you later on. Be upfront if you do not think you are qualified for a project or if you already have too much on your plate. If you know of someone who might suit their needs better, don't be afraid to refer them. This shows that you actually care about their success, increasing the chances that they'll contact you again.

2. Listen carefully to your client's needs. Every client will have a different way of operating and will have different expectations of you. Taking notes and asking questions to clarify the finer details will show your commitment to the project.

3. Ask about payment up front. Though this can feel like an awkward subject to broach, having a clear understanding of how much, how often and in what way you will be paid will help you to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

4. Communicate often. Keeping in touch is the key to a good relationship with your client. Reply to emails or phone messages promptly. Give feedback and updates. Clients like to be involved with their projects, so don't keep them in the dark. Even if you don't need any help from them, keeping them informed of your progress will strengthen your relationship.

References

• Wakeup Later: Client Communication - The Most Important Part of Freelancing
• Business.com: More Effective Client Communications