How To Be a Better WordPress Consultant – WPCAST001

In this episode, we discuss what works and what doesn’t when you’re providing WordPress consulting services.

The Changelog

* Introduction to Doug’s websites and products: EfficientWP and PodWP.

* Introduction to David’s websites and products: FatCatApps and Easy Pricing Tables.

The Core

Listen to what the client wants, but figure out what they need.

* As a premium contractor, your clients value your advice.

* Figure out if it’s a good fit, from both your perspective as well as your client’s.

* Can I deliver on what they need? Do I have the expertise? Do I want to do that kind of work?

* Be an expert in WordPress, rather than mediocre in a lot of things.

* Are there any warning signs that this is going to be a bad client? Examples: urgency, high maintenance, asking for discounts.

Starting the project: discuss pricing, timeline, and scope.

* Neither you nor your client will want any surprises.

* State things specifically in the contract, and get in front of issues as soon as possible to avoid disputes.

* Get paid up front when possible and the amount is reasonable.

* Fixed pricing is better than hourly pricing.

* With fixed pricing for productized services, people are used to paying up front.

* With hourly pricing for services, people are used to paying on completion.

During the project: under promise, over deliver.

* Set reasonable expectations and don’t risk disappointing your client.

* Your client appreciates it if you do more than expected and go the extra mile.

After the project: establish a long term relationship.

* Stay in touch with your clients, get them on a retainer or recurring contract (maintenance, hosting, new design).

* It’s much harder to get work from a new client than to get more work from an existing client.

* Build a list of contractors for doing specific tasks.

* Getting referrals is an easier and more passive way of marketing, and you have a higher likelihood of getting hired.

If you’re just starting out:

* Pick an easy project.

* Work for free or on a low cost basis (maybe for friends and family), but increase your rate quickly.

* Make a good website and build your portfolio.

Transcript