The client consultation call is the first opportunity to learn about how a new potential client will (or will not) work successfully with a virtual assistant before the contract is signed.

The VA must listen carefully during the consultation to pick up on any tell-tale clues of disrespect and potential payment issues.* Any one or more of the following scenarios may be a red flag warning that a potential client (PC) *may become a future difficult client.

Here are some questions you may ask yourself:

Pre-consultation

• Does the PC keep the schedule consultation appointment?
• If the PC is late in keeping the appointment, does he care enough to get back to you within a few hours to reschedule?
• If the PC is late or never made the consultation appointment, was the excuse something ‘reasonable’?* (“I forgot about our client consultation call” is not a suitable excuse.)

During the consultation call

• Is the PC frequently interrupted or does he place the virtual assistant on hold?
• Does the PC speak only about his needs and never ask... Click here to read the rest of this post at Your Virtual Wizard.

Your Virtual Wizard Blog is authored by VAF member Janine of Your Virtual Wizard.


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great post, I think as freelancers, we sometimes take on clients ignoring our gut feelings, this is a great guide to help look for the warning signs. thanks for sharing

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Kim Beckers
Online Business Manager

Hi Kim,

I've been paying more attention to the types of questions the PC asks as well as does not ask during the consultation. I also look for enthusiasm in starting up with a virtual assistant.

Usually, those PCs who are enthusiastic and are eagerly ready to get started are worth pursuing as clients. Those who drag their feet, do not return emails or show enthusiasm which dies off quickly seem to NOT be worth my time.

I had one such situation two weeks ago. The PC started off with a bang and was thrilled to hear about what I could do to improve his presence on line and then I never heard from him again. I followed up with an email, answered rate questions only and then no response. He also asked me the 'barter' question before spoke about rates. (red flag!).

It is such a shame because he left such a bad impression on me.

Thank you for your comments.

Janine

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This is an *excellent* blog post - if they are distracted during the initial call or do not keep the scheduled call in the first place...HUGE red flag.

For me, it's the quality of the client, not the quantitiy. Maybe I'll never get rich but I'll still have my sanity LOL

Thanks again!

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Joy Wilder
Wilder Office Approach

During my Free Consultation with a prospective clients, I ALWAYS tape my consultations. The prospective client has full knowledge that he or she is being taped. After the consultation, a copy is also sent to the PC, and I would either, prepare a retainer, or proposal; if I don't feel comfortable with what was said, I would request another consultation (also taped) and from there I will make my decision to work for the PC or not. Sometimes I will use my gut feeling to work for someone, if it's bad then it's a no go.

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Phyllis L
UNIQUELY40, LLC
http://www.uniquely40.com