Packaging - Scoping for Success

Summary

In this episode, Joel and Jed discuss the importance of scoping out a job when working with new clients. They emphasize the need to ask questions and gather all the necessary information to create a comprehensive proposal. They also highlight the significance of setting boundaries and avoiding scope creep. The conversation emphasizes the importance of slowing down and taking the time to properly communicate with clients to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the process of scoping and packaging jobs for new clients.

Keywords

scoping, job packaging, new clients, boundaries, scope creep, communication

Takeaways

• When working with new clients, it is crucial to ask questions and gather all the necessary information to create a comprehensive proposal.

• Setting boundaries and avoiding scope creep is essential to protect your business and ensure a harmonious client relationship.

• Slowing down and taking the time to properly communicate with clients can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

• Being confident in your pricing and package offerings is key to controlling the situation and making sure you are compensated appropriately for your work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:55 Scoping Out Jobs with New Clients

05:11 Setting Boundaries and Avoiding Scope Creep

08:53 The Power of Slowing Down and Proper Communication

09:35 Being Confident in Your Pricing and Packages

13:18 Conclusion

In so many words…

In this blog post, we delve into an essential aspect of business operations: effectively scoping out a job, especially when working with new clients. Scoping is crucial to ensure you fully understand the client's needs and set clear expectations from the start. Here's how you can approach this process for success.

Start with Inquisitiveness

The first meeting with a potential client is all about asking the right questions. It’s your opportunity to thoroughly understand what the client needs and what the project will entail. This stage should be about gathering as much information as possible. Don’t rush to conclusions or assume anything—keep digging until you have a complete picture. A simple yet powerful tool during these meetings is to always end each segment by asking, “Is there anything else?” This encourages the client to think of additional details they might not have mentioned.

Take Your Time

It’s important not to feel pressured to provide a price or commit to an outcome during the first meeting. Instead, focus on gathering information. Let the client know that you’ll take the time to fully scope out the job and then come back with a detailed proposal. This approach not only helps you avoid underestimating the project but also positions you as a professional who takes their business seriously.

Avoid Scope Creep

Once you have scoped out the job and provided a proposal, make sure to communicate clearly what is included in your service—and what is not. This is key to avoiding scope creep, where additional tasks are added to the project without a corresponding increase in budget. It’s better to have a second meeting to go over the proposal and ensure that both you and the client are on the same page. Remember, slowing down at this stage to clarify expectations can save you a lot of trouble later on.

Building Confidence

A big part of successful scoping and packaging is confidence. Especially early on in your business, it might be tempting to try to win every job by offering answers or prices on the spot. However, taking control of the process, giving yourself time to properly assess the job, and then presenting a well-thought-out package is a sign of professionalism. It also ensures that you remain in control of the situation, protecting both your time and your profits.

Real-Life Example

Consider this scenario: a new client comes on board midway through the financial year. You provide a lower monthly fee because part of the work for the year has already been completed by their previous accountant. However, you make it clear that from the next financial year, the fees will increase to reflect the full scope of work. When the time comes, the client questions the increase, but because you had clearly communicated this upfront, it’s easy to resolve the issue with a quick phone call and a reference to your previous conversation. This proactive communication saves time and avoids misunderstandings.

Conclusion

Scoping out a job properly, especially with new clients, is about taking control of the process from the start. It requires thorough questioning, careful consideration, and clear communication. By taking the time to get it right upfront, you protect your business from potential issues down the line and build a reputation as a reliable and professional service provider.

For more insights on pricing and packaging for profit, check out our dedicated package on our website. We’ve covered these topics in depth over the last few episodes, and we're here to help you get your business running on your terms. Reach out to learn more, and stay tuned for more valuable tips next week!