Most online freelancers will never meet their clients in real life, which is why it is crucial to understand how to make a good first impression on a new client without ever leaving home. Here are some tips on making a good first impression on your new client.
Do Your Homework
Before a meeting with a new client even begins, you must do your homework. Being properly prepared is key to demonstrating to the client not only professionalism but that you care. Here are a few actions you should take before the meeting:
- Research their company (products, services, mission statement, demographics, etc.)
- Research the client (their culture, professional history, etc.)
- Review the job position and requirements
- Create an online portfolio with relevant, similar work
Dress for Success
Freelancers are fortunate enough to wear their pajamas to work, but you shouldn’t do that when meeting a new client. Even online, you should dress as though you are going to a live interview. Brush your hair, wear professional clothes, and make sure that your background is clean and tidy.
Be Punctual
“I got stuck in traffic” is no longer a viable excuse to be late for a meeting when everything online. It would be best if you always tried to beat your potential client to the meeting space and make sure that any technical difficulties are addressed before their arrival. Simply remember this mantra, “Early in on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable.”
Create a Connection
When you first meet a new client, creating a connection with them is a powerful tool. By creating a bond, your client will feel as though you are more trustworthy and remember you better when it comes time to compare potential hires. You want to be the first person they think of.
Listen Carefully
You must listen carefully and take notes during a new client meeting. If you are not efficient at listening and writing simultaneously, you may want to ask the client if you can record the meeting to review after. Just remember to have your recording system prepped in advance, that you ask permission before recording, and that you have a backup note-taking plan in case they say no.
Be Realistic
Freelancers are taught to say “yes” to almost any request. However, you must be realistic with your time and capabilities. Do not promise them something that you cannot deliver on. It is best to provide clear expectations and boundaries right off the bat. By doing so, you will be able to create an honest and respectful relationship with the client.
Solve Their Problem
The main goal of a new client meeting is to demonstrate to the client that you can solve their problem quickly and efficiently. To do this, share with your client how your processes work, how you will solve their problem, and how you can save them money. If the client knows that you are a high-quality, reasonably priced solution to their problem, they will want to hire you.
New Clients at ProZ.com
ProZ.com freelancers, I hope that these suggestions will help you increase your number of high-quality clients. The world's largest community of language professionals offers many opportunities to meet new clients. First impressions are possible through your profile, comments in forum, responses in KudoZ, feedback on Blue Board and more. If you have other tips you recommend, please share them with us in the comments.
