I just got a call from someone interested in my services. Since it wasn't a scheduled call, it was more general than it would have been otherwise. Now this person wants to set a consultation meeting at his office... How should I respond to that? On one hand I'd be glad to go if that means a signed contract, but on the other I don't feel comfortable spending my time driving around...

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Sara
Your Reliable Help Just a Click Away

If on the initial call I have gone over my services and rates and they still show interest, I would be happy to meet in person. If they do become a client, having that personal meeting up front could go a long way in helping to establish a good working relationship. Besides, I see all opportunities to discuss my services as a great chance to learn and improve. You can also claim your business mileage as an expense. I would say that it also depends on your need for more clients. If you already have a fairly full practice you may be less inclined to invest the time than if you are still building your client base.

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Linda
Clockwise Virtual Assistance

I agree, ClockwiseVA. Initially, I was against meeting a client in person (thinking it defeated the purpose of being a VA) but when I had a few locals requesting to pay in person, you bet I traveled to to go and pick it up! But for consultations or anything else, I wish I could, but I already don't have enough hours in the day. If you'd be glad to meet the potential client in person, do so. If you don't feel comfortable spending your time driving around, see if you can agree to meet somewhere closer to you (coffee shop?).

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Yours Virtually...

Yes, I have met clients in person. I recently meet a PC at a coffee shop (left with signed agreement). And I had an initial meeting with a PC at their office years ago, one who turned into a client for about five years. I don't think I'd travel long distances to meet anyone, though.

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Pam Deyerle - Transcriptionist in Richmond, Virginia (16 years)
The Perfect Word Transcription Service

Sometimes a PC only needs the comfort of meeting you face-too-face. I have met many local clients for coffee or lunch. For those that are further away I ask to meet them at a central location. I look at it this way, if this is what they need to close the deal then it is worth the trip and it does get me out of my office.

I also met with a PC in person for coffee after a wonderful phone call only to realize after an in-depth conversation that we were not a great fit. So it can work to your advantage too.

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Lee Drozak

I prefer to meet locals in person (usually at a coffee shop) as that allows me to gauge the person much better than over the phone. If in-person doesn't work, I try to set up a webcam/SKYPE meeting. You can read a LOT from the body language during the discussion.

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Lily Chambers, The Virtual Office Goddess, LLC
Author "How to Do Your Own Small Business Bookkeeping"

I've met clients at their offices and at coffee shops and I've even travelled to a neighbouring island which led to a new client on a monthly retainer contract. In the agreement, I included a clause that would cover future travelling expenses so I am able to recoup ferry journeys etc so I definitely think my initial trip was well worth it. It depends on how your business is set up. I originally wanted to work solely online but I found that it wasn't all that practical for me so I have branched out to my local community which involves travel but I get to do work that I like and my clients are happy so again, it is totally worth it.

By meeting clients in person it can give them the necessary push to sign with you because they get to put a face to your business and get a better idea of what type of professional you are. I say, take the plunge, you might be pleasantly surprised.

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Sabrina L. Williams
Your Property and Admin Needs Made Simple

Thank you everybody for sharing your experience. My initial thought was also that working virtually means just that. But I agree with the fact that meeting a PC can be beneficial for both, the VA and PC.

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Sara
Your Reliable Help Just a Click Away