Prepare for your first client visit
People make decisions within 30 seconds of meeting someone new. That makes it critical that you make a good first impression.
- Before you arrive, make sure you have at least a cursory understanding of what the client's needs are and what they are hoping to accomplish.
- Be prepared, organized and on time. Browse through the client's web site, if they have one, so you have an understanding of their business, their management team and their environment. Identify key values you believe that they may have as a company and note where you share those values.
- Bring or be prepared to discuss examples of previous similar solutions you have developed. Bring copies of your brochure, bio and business cards even if you've mailed them previously.
- Dress appropriately. Find out what their environment is like and be a little dressier than that. Dig out your suit, sweater or jacket from the grave, or buy a new one. Do whatever it will take to feel good about your appearance. Get that hair cut you had been putting off. If you're a woman, a little make-up can go a long way. No, they aren't hiring you for your looks, but as unfair as it might seem, studies have shown that attractive people have more credibility.
Pleasing appearance is not just for the client, it's for you too. You will feel more confident if you look great.
- Make a list of questions you need to have answered in order to prepare a bid for the project.
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