First, you need to GET clients. That’s another blog, another time.
But when you DO get clients, there are some pretty simple things you can do to keep ’em, and keep ’em close.
Let me back up, though…and let me be clear. You are not providing voice-over services to your clients, you are solving their problems. You are their partner, their supporter, and a steady presence in their time of need. You’re in a relationship with your clients (in fact, that’s likely how you got them…right?). Sure, it’s a business relationship, but still…it’s human-to-human (H2H).
So, in a sense, it’s almost embarrassing to have to suggest some things that normally considerate human beings would do for one another when they’re in a relationship
Still, there’s no harm in suggesting some tactful reminders for being magnanimous, unselfish, and obliging… in short: for being a good business partner.
4 Things That Will Make Your VO Clients Love You
Anticipate their needs. Do some research. Ask some pertinent questions. Get to know your client’s business, how it runs, their goals, and their protocols. In time, you’ll find out their workflow, and maybe you’ll even get ahead of it enough to know when to speak up and offer help before they ask for it. Even if your timing is off, they’ll appreciate that you’re thinking of them.
Beat your and their expectations. Don’t just meet their project deadlines, supersede them. Take it up a notch, and surprise them with your timeliness. This is NOT just another job. This is a job that defines your work ethic, your attentiveness to their needs, and your own self-worth. They’ll remember that you bent over backwards to please.
Stay in constant communication. This is a biggie. Your client is not clairvoyant. Let them know you got the assignment. Tell them you’re working on it. Update your progress to them in an email. Estimate a delivery time. Glitches or hiccups? Ask questions, show them you’re involved, and you haven’t forgotten them. Friends do this…right?
Say “Thank you”. This is HUGE. If you miss the boat on the other three suggestions above, be sure to do this one. Call them and ask if they’re happy. Make sure the deal is done before saying thank you and invoicing. Ask if there’s anything else you can do. Send an email telling them how nice it was to work with them. Drop a Thank You letter in the mail with a Starbucks gift card. Send ’em a pen…a helpful promotional item…a thumb drive. What little it will cost you to do that will stick in their memory as something a friend would do.
H2H, remember?
CourVO