This Tip continues a list begun on a previous Tip of what not to do with a new client during the first interview.
What Not to Do With a New Client
Contract and Work Expectations
26. be unwilling to be flexible on work expectations
27. neglect to add contract limitations on edits and revisions 28. 28.neglect to add contract provisions for work beyond the initial scope
Referrals and Fit
29. not ask for referrals and references at end of successful project
30. disregard intuition that the client isn’t the right fit for you
Wrong Work and Bad Situation
31. walk into situations when they want a “fall guy” to blame
32. assume you know what the client means or wants. Not ask clarifying questions to ensure you’re on the same page
33. accept work that is contrary to your ethics
No Hire or Overbook
34. talk the client out of hiring you
35. be unrealistic about workload and time commitments
36. overbook yourself . Don’t negotiate a more reasonable time frame
Diss a Client and Not Anticipate
37. speak negatively about former clients or client experiences
38. go into the meeting without having:
- all relevant experience,
- references, and
- project dates available
39. neglect to anticipate questions and prepare answers
40. neglect to plan how to minimize or address client concerns
Make Mistakes About Working
41. assume that larger corporations are:
- more professional and
- fiscally responsible
than smaller companies
42. neglect to propose follow up services
43. plan to work without a written contract
Fees
44. be apologetic about your fees
45. be unprepared to discuss your fees
Rush and Assume Immediate Response
46. rush to answer questions . Not takie time to think them through
47. assume they need an immediate proposal the next day. Not ask for or negotiate a reasonable turnaround time
Tell Client What to Do
48. tell the client what they should think or do. Not consider what they are prepared to think or do
49. believe your credibility begins and ends with the outcome of the interview
50. forget to consider each interview situation as an interesting new learning opportunity!
