How To Get Out Of Planning Mode With Potential Clients
Planning is an essential part of building client relationships, but there comes a time when all things must end, so the fun can truly begin. When you are building a relationship with a potential client, it can feel like all you do is talk. This podcast is all about helping you take your next steps.
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In today’s episode, we’ll be chatting about how to get out of planning mode with potential clients.
Sum Up What’s Been Happening
First things first, sum up what’s been happening thus far. You can say something like,
“From our past conversations, I see you want five, 1500-word blog posts a month. My current rate for that is $X. Does this sound like something we can work on together? Do you need a different service?”
The goal here is to move the conversation from planning to action mode by making sure that everyone is on the same page.
Get Your Client On The Phone
Another way to get out of planning mode is to get your client on the phone. I am not the biggest fan of client calls, but I know that they can sometimes be necessary. Going back and forth via email can take forever. Sometimes a well-timed client call can push your client over the edge and make them ready to sign up for your services officially. Check out my journal Client Calls Simplified to make this process easier for you.
Client calls are not interviews; they are conversations.
If you’re nervous about pricing on the phone, ask to send them a unique price later.
Create A Service That Meets Their Needs
Last but not least, create a service that meets their needs. Sometimes you need to be flexible to get your clients out of planning mode. You may have to offer an additional service that you weren’t expecting. For example:
Content writers might also offer a bit of graphic design for social media images.
Podcast editors might to write show notes or do interview outreach.
Social media managers might also offer photography for social channels.
Simple additions to your freelance business could pull potential clients over, and make you more money in the process.