Hello everyone,
I have been to a few initial client meetings with just me and the client but I was wondering whether anyone could give me some advice about what to expect from a client, bookkeeper and accountant meeting.
Also would you charge for this meeting?
Thanks
Kelly
In respect of initial meetings, you need to understand what the clients requirements are and what you can offer - then hopefully you will get some common ground and the start of a working relationship.
And no you don't tend to charge for the initial meeting.
I'm the same as Nick, I don't charge for the first meeting as you need to know what the client wants. I don't charge if its an accountants practice either as potentially they could send alot of work your way. I was dropping some work off in Nov to a local accountant, told them I was looking for work and had a brief chat, and then also got another one of my clients to change practices to them (to save money he was being ripped off), and then in February got a really good client out of them. I had been in there a few times networking at my own expense but its paid off which is good.
When I went in there in Feb to get the new clients work I didn't charge either the client or the accounts practice as again I see it as networking and building a relationship for the future.
Other people on here may be different, it will be interesting what others think.
I was talking about the initial meeting. I've seen adverts - 'free half hour initial consultation' - if I feel that the potential client is genuine and cutting a meeting short may be detrimental, I may extend this. I'm my own worst enemy, I love talking about client's businesses, it lights up their enthusiasm, but have been known to have 2 hour first meetings!
After the initial meeting, if they come on board as a client, the fee I've quoted usually covers all aspects of work. The only time I charge extra is if they want me to do additional work.
