Having a client based business is HARD. Mailing (and receiving) invoices, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations can be a struggle but it doesn’t have to be.
Here are 3 tips that have helped me manage all of my clients while still maintaining my sanity.
1 | Content Calendar
What really helped me was trying to not manage every client everyday but to set specific days where I manage each file. Why do this? If you try to jump from project to project, the quality will decrease. It also helps when you make sure you finish projects every time you work on them or at least reach a solid stopping point that is easy to pick up again.
I give my biggest clients 2.5 days and split the other 2.5 days between my other two clients. Spreading out the workload makes sure that I stay FRESH in mind and ideas every time I work for them. I would hate to be down and out after drowning in a bigger clients file and not provide my best self!
2 | Monthly or Quarterly Goals
This is SO IMPORTANT!
Every month I like to consult with my client on what the end game of the month is (if its not monthly, quarterly is great too). Why have goals? Have you ever tried to stay motivated when theres no light at the end of the tunnel? I have and it sucks! The best practice that you can have it so set sprint, 5k, 10k and marathon goals to reach so you know you are providing consistent trackable value.
Working with a team?
Making sure that everyone is on the same path with the same end destination
3 | Communication
Make sure that you have an open and available line of communication with your clients. You need to be able to quickly adjust to any changes or updates that might come across their desk that pertain to a project you’re managing.
One of my clients asked me the other day why I always answer the phone on the first call.
Unless I am predisposed (aka in the shower or on a conference call) my phone line is ALWAYS available.
Being reachable should be a #1 priority as well as a service you can stand by when putting your business out there.
