Most businesses that offer a service have a model in place that follows something along these lines:
- Client calls and wants more information.
- You send marketing material, demo, and link to your website (assuming the client didn’t find you online).
- You arrange a call or meeting to discuss what they need and what you can provide.
- You create a proposal.
- More meetings and calls ensue to finalize proposal details.
- A contract is signed, and voilá! You have a new client!
This seems fairly rudimentary, but somehow the lines always blur. The client calls before the initial proposal goes out and wants you to “look into something” (like analyze their PPC AdWords). Beware these words! They can lead to dangerous free time leechers. You should always have restrictions on how much you’re willing to do for prospective clients up front, for instance, most designers caution against offering design comps before signing a contract. I do an initial site analysis (to get an idea of what I’m working with and to make recommendations), but I won’t offer consulting services for free. The important thing to remember is don’t be afraid to say no. Otherwise you risk devaluing your time while creating unrealistic expectations for your client that they can get any information for the asking.
Durham is opening the Durham Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the-art performing arts center. If you live in the Triangle and enjoy concerts and theater, sign up for the Friends of DPAC, a free mailing list that gives members early ticket sales opportunities (like B.B. King or Fiddler on the Roof, starring Chaim Topol, the original Tevye). The building is beautiful, and parking in downtown Durham is always convenient thanks to the parking decks around the area.
Elizabeth Rainwater
Victor Aponte
