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Navigating Your First Client Meeting as a Freelance Bookkeeper
I recently transitioned into freelance Bookkeeping after spending two years managing the books for a sizable department. While I have a passion for working with numbers, I often find social interactions challenging, making initial client meetings a bit daunting.
Currently, I’m preparing for my first meeting with a very small business—a pet sitting and boarding service with only two employees. They’re paying for QuickBooks but are still managing their finances using pen and paper. Their main goal is to establish some general structure around their financial processes.
I’ve already gathered some preliminary information, such as how they handle payments, their employee setup, and their existing financial practices. However, I could use some additional advice or a script to help guide our in-person conversation. Any suggestions from fellow professionals would be greatly appreciated!
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One response
Certainly! It’s great to hear about your venture into freelance Bookkeeping. While first meetings can indeed be daunting, especially when you’re more comfortable with numbers than with small talk, a structured approach can help you present yourself professionally and gain your client’s confidence. Here’s a suggested script with specific points to cover during your first meeting with the pet sitting/boarding business:
Introduction
“Hi [Client’s Name], it’s wonderful to meet you in person. Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.”
Brief Self-Introduction:
Understanding Their Business
“I understand you’re running a pet sitting and boarding business. Could you tell me a little more about how you started and what your day-to-day operations look like?”
Discuss Current Financial Practices:
Identifying Needs and Offering Solutions
“What would you say are the biggest financial challenges you’re facing right now?”
Offer Possible Solutions:
Explaining Your Services
“Here’s how I could assist you: I can [list services like setting up financial structures, regular Bookkeeping, creating reports, etc.]. These services aim to simplify your financial management and give you more time to focus on other aspects of your business.”
Highlight Benefits:
Next Steps
“If everything sounds good, we could start with [mention a starting action, like a small Audit of their current system or setting up the QuickBooks workflow]. What are your thoughts on this approach?”
**Clarify Tim