Forming a relationship with your clients will underpin the future success of your business. Here are some useful hints to get you off to a flying start.
Listen to what your clients want. Use an email marketing campaign or Survey Monkey to find out what theyd like.
Grow your associations organically. Liking someone isnt enough. It takes time to develop a relationship.
Compare your core values. Its not just about skill set but about attitude and reputation management. How do they treat clients? Do they pay on time? Do they stick to deadlines?
Do they have a similar target market without being a direct competitor?
Play to your strengths. Be clear about what all parties are bringing to the table. Do you need someone with the same skill set or is your work complementary?
Consider how you are going to market the work you do together. How does this impact upon your own brand?
Are you going to simply outsource work or do you need to set up a formal partnership?
Be very clear about how you will work, how much time you can both dedicate and fees for each party.
Take time to communicate regularly, at least on a weekly basis and immediately if any contentious issues arise.
Measure your success. Keep a records of your sales pipeline where you can both update it – Dropbox is ideal.
Celebrate your brilliant collaboration!
Moore VA
http://www.mooreva.co.uk
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