For freelancers, whether designers, developers, or those who work part-time in freelance jobs, there are many situations where they will meet a new client—whether it’s a company owner, project manager, or even an individual in need of a new service. We can’t deny that divine guidance and the quality of your work are the primary factors for success, but there are other small and scattered details that greatly contribute to the success of this meeting. As a first step, let’s talk about the important things to consider before meeting the client.
1- Gather Your Best Works:
One of the most important preparatory steps for your meeting with the client is to gather and organize your key works. Try to showcase works similar to what the client will ask from you. For instance, if the client wants a logo design, show them some of your previous logos. If you have a large portfolio, select pieces that align with the client’s field. For example, if they work in the automotive industry, show them a car-related logo or something close to it. Don’t confuse the client with unrelated ideas or works.
2- Learn About the Client’s Nature, Work, and Thinking:
Try to talk to someone who has met with the client before to get an idea about their personality and way of dealing with people. Of course, what you hear shouldn’t change your approach entirely, but it’s helpful to have some small insights about the client’s character, which will assist you in dealing with them more effectively.
3- Research Examples of Their Work:
This step is crucial for understanding the client’s taste and the type of work they are involved in. It will also help you know what they lack and what they might ask you about. The client might inquire about their logo, website, or an advertising campaign they ran. Therefore, you need to have a clear idea about these things to discuss them effectively.
4- Your Appearance and Tools: Very Important:
Don’t forget anything that might be useful in the meeting, like your laptop charger, USB drive, external hard drive, a CD, or printed materials. Forgetting any essential item can cause significant embarrassment and leave a negative impression. Also, pay attention to your appearance, especially for the first meeting. Try to leave directly for the meeting without getting tired or worn out beforehand.
5- Review Your Prices Carefully:
Review your prices and set a maximum and minimum range. Stay within these limits without undervaluing or overpricing your work. Set a price that makes you comfortable while working and is fair to the client. Be ready to state the price confidently during the discussion, and make sure the price is open for negotiation. Don’t stick rigidly to the maximum price, and don’t go below the minimum.
6- Stick to the Appointment:
From the start, set an appointment that works for both you and the client, and don’t postpone it unless absolutely necessary. Don’t attend the meeting just to inform the client that you’re in a hurry, and most importantly, never arrive late. Even if you arrive and the client isn’t there, your commitment to the appointment will ensure the client is committed to you in all aspects.
7- A Virtual Meeting:
Imagine the questions the client might ask you. Think about how you will answer them, and prepare some hypothetical questions with direct answers. Even consider the smallest scenarios that might occur and think about how to handle them. In the end, divine guidance is the foremost factor, as I mentioned, but these assumptions will help you deal with situations confidently and reduce the element of surprise. However, don’t let this step put you in a state of anxiety or worry. Handle it with ease and simplicity.
These points may not cover everything, but from personal experience, they are essential and important aspects. Adhering to them is beneficial on all levels.