Just got a call from a relative that their boss wants to meet with me today to discuss some things he would like done (website stuff). The person already passed my info. on to their boss (my intro packet), so they know a little about what I do and how I do it.

Any pointers for client consultations, especially ones that are already generally informed about your business? This will be my first in-person consultation.

Thank you!

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Darlene Victoria Gonzalez
The Voice & Vision Behind Your Business

Originally Posted by DarleneG.

Just got a call from a relative that their boss wants to meet with me today to discuss some things he would like done (website stuff). The person already passed my info. on to their boss (my intro packet), so they know a little about what I do and how I do it. Any pointers for client consultations, especially ones that are already generally informed about your business? This will be my first in-person consultation. Thank you!

I think it's crucial to get the way that they work integrated into the conversation. Do they require status updates (micro-manager), what style of communication do they prefer, phone or email. I even allow them to tell me about their business passion. It's helpful to me so that I can determine other needs.

Good luck
Lisa

You should treat them as if they are a cold client and they were not referred by someone. Always be overly professional no matter who you are meeting with.

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Tamika R. Johnson, MBA, Principal
administrative partners, llc
www.administrativepartners.net | http://adminpartners.blogspot.com

Darlene, I'm preparing for my first meet on Tuesday so I'm a bit nervous myself. I'm preparing the packet of info plus a contract and quote. I am putting some time into demonstrating our solution to a few issues he already talked to me about. I'm just looking forward to learning more about what it is that they need exactly, I'm prepared to just ask questions and listen, so I know where I can help. I'm curious to read the other responses on this post as well.

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Sarah Bernstein
Jackson Administrative Outsourcing
www.jacksonao.com

I got into this a bit late today, you may have already been there. But I would say be prepared with samples of your work as well. If you do a bit of web design, mayble have some samples of web sites for them to check out to show off your work.

Good Luck!!

I just wanted to stop in and say thank you for your advice (yes, I am a few days late..sorry about that!)

The consulation went well, I wasn't as nervous as I thought I would be. I emailed the person a service agreement which he agreed to having me send. Haven't heard much since. However, that meeting prepped me for an unexpected phone call I received yesterday. The points I failed to miss at my in person meeting, I was sure to hit on the phone call. I ended up landing that client, so the old adage is true..practice makes perfect. I actually had fun during both consultations (maybe networking events won't be so bad afterall ).

Sarah, you will do great Tuesday, try to relax, be yourself. Good Luck with your consultation.

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Darlene Victoria Gonzalez
The Voice & Vision Behind Your Business

Congrats on landing your latest client Darlene. I guess it just reinforces the saying 'when one door closes, another opens.'

As for networking events, after participate in your first one, I bet you'll find you like it. Besides starting work as a VA, I write romantic fiction (not published yet, but some day). After I attending my first writer's conference, I was hooked. Networking can be both valuable and fun.