In this episode Scott and Wes talk about the freelance client lifecycle—from gathering requirements, to project hand-off, and everything in between.

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Show Notes

03:29 - Gathering Requirements

• Probably the most important part of the process. If you botch this, you’ll be dealing with change orders and scope-creep throughout the entire project. Poor planning is why agencies have project managers and why many freelancers hate their clients.
• Ask lots of questions
• Get lots of examples
• Break down each page into functionality
• Ask about budget
• Clarify who will be updating the site
• Do this in person if possible

17:00 - Quote

• Figuring out the quote
• Break it down into major functional areas that don’t necessarily depend on each other.
• Multi-staged quotes are great because if it’s too expensive, the client knows they can add additional features later in the project.
• Explain the tech you will use in relation to how it will help their business, or how easy it will be for them to manage.
• Presenting the quote
  • List what will be included
  • List what won’t be included
  • Make your quote valid for two weeks
  • Create a template that looks professional
    • Our agency had a professional template, printed on heavy paper in an embossed folder with our logo on it.
  • You don’t have to go this far, but experience matters. Think Apple. You can quote more if you have a higher perception of quality.

30:20 - Timelines

• Timelines should include hard dates. You should have a “hard on” and and “hard off”.
• Assume 24-hour turnaround on questions
• Be generous with your estimates. Under promise, over deliver.
• Quoting time is a huge skill

35:58 - Contract

• You best have one
• Spell out what the client is getting (from quote)
• At the very least, have the client sign your quote
• Clear communication and a good relationship is extremely important
• Use online templates, or have a lawyer create something specific

41:09 - Setting Expectations

• Don’t make yourself available 24/7
• Establish a professional environment by not being too casual
• Your choices will set the course for your relationship
• Don’t be too quick to reply to email
• Schedule emails for 10a.m.

Links

• Syntax 036: Hasty Treat - Freelancing Hot Tips
• docracy
• Boomerang for Gmail

××× SIIIIICK ××× PIIIICKS ×××

• Scott: The Great Suspender

Wes: Food Busker YouTube Channel

Shameless Plugs

• Scott’s Level 1 Styled Components Course
• Wes’ Courses

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