Preparing for the First Meeting

Before the potential client arrives, you likely have a good idea or at least an inkling as to why the potential client wants to consult with you. Whoever set up the appointment for you would have gotten some initial information before setting up the meeting. Admittedly, sometimes that information is incomplete or off-base, but you can use it to prepare for your meeting.

If you know someone who wants you to create supplier template contracts for their use, then you can create a checklist of what questions you’d like to ask. Creating a checklist and having it handy for other potential clients is a good idea. Some firms have Business Client Intake Forms. 💡 Take a look at this business start-up sample form and answer the following questions:

• What are the benefits of such a form?
• Does this form help you create your checklist?
• What problems do you see with this sample?
• What changes would you make to allow for flexibility regarding the client’s needs?

It can be helpful to have Intake Forms but recognize that many entrepreneurs are not often excited about being given an impersonal form or homework to complete. My recommendation is to keep such a form short and for basic contact info purposes. You can take notes on the rest during your meeting.

📖 Read this succinct blog post written by Jonathan R. Tung, “How to Prepare for Your First Client Meeting.”