Posts tagged client questionnaire
4 things I've done differently to improve client communications in my business
4 things I've done differently to improve client communications in my business

Many freelancers/small business owners/entrepreneurs go into business thinking that doing the actual work will be the most challenging part of their job. But in many cases, it’s actually client communications and management that can be the scariest or hardest part of their day. Who’d have thought that?!

Client communication can have its ups and downs, there’s no denying it. Anytime you’re dealing with people and their businesses, there’s an emotional component that can’t be ignored. But now that I’ve been in business for several years, I finally feel like I’m getting a handle on things.

Since I started my business, I’ve made countless changes to my process and learned a LOT about the best way to work with clients. Sometimes that means retraining my brain on the type of language to use, other times it means implementing new organization strategies. I can anticipate what various pushback points might be and I’m able to get ahead of the situation and keep everyone happy.

I’m not saying that I’m perfect or that I’m an expert in client communications, but I’ve definitely learned a lot and want to share those lessons with you today!

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BusinessCharlotte O'Harabusiness, my business, client management, client communications, client questionnaire, ideal client, referralComment
How and why I include a Client Questionnaire in my Web Design & Development process
How and why I include a Client Questionnaire in my Web Design & Development process

Let’s rewind to the early days of my business when I was starting out as a web designer/developer. I was honing my technical skills and getting better every day but one area that I knew I could improve on was organization. I realized that if I was going to take my business seriously and actually make a “go” at it, I would need to set up (and stick to) processes, systems, templates and project plans.

As part of my early journey to get my business organized, I created the first version of what is now my Client Questionnaire. It has been refined and tweaked over time but the core has stayed the same. 

Client Questionnaires are something that I include in EVERY web design/development project and it’s a step that I wouldn't dare leave out. It helps me to do my best work for the client because both parties are ready to plan and prepared to execute the best website - right from the start. The Client Questionnaire is a way to gather a huge amount of information ahead of time and make sure that the client is clear, focused and intentional on the process as we move forward with the website. I use the document to guide our discussion, ask the necessary questions, and flush out the main points to consider when we begin the actual website build.

Let's take a look

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BusinessCharlotte O'Haraclient management, client questionnaire, client homework, design process, google docs, google drive Comments