Questions to Ask Potential Clients / Meeting Notes January 2016

Location: Vicar’s Vice, Stoney Creek

Attendees: Janet, Crystal, Salma, Natalie, Terry, Jenn, Cathy S., Joan

Discussion Topic: Questions to Ask Potential Clients

Before you take on a new client, you need to determine whether:

• you have the skills to meet the clients needs
• you and the client are a good fit

Potential Questions to Ask

What software do you use? (especially for bookkeeping)

How much work is there? Is there a backlog?

What are your expectations?

What do you think I can do for you?

What is the purpose (end goal) of this project?

Does your company or industry have formal policies or standards in place that must be adhered to?

What type of business do you have?

How long have you been in business?

What service(s) do you require?

Who is currently doing the work?

How much time are you currently spending on this task?

How much are you currently paying for this service?

Why are you switching from your current service provider?

How did you hear about us?

This is how I work. Does that work for you?

When do you need this done?

Tell me about your business.

What are your goals for this year?

How do you ask these questions, and at what stage?

Important questions may be included in your contact form as a way of pre-screening clients before responding to their inquiry.

If you like to meet prospective clients face-to-face, you should explore these questions by telephone or email first to save time if it’s not a good fit.

It’s helpful to meet clients in person so you can observe non-verbal cues and see their office if you will be doing any work there.

If you ask different questions or have other comments to add, please do!

Photo by Anna Shvets from Pexels