Comments on: One Way to Sort the Ideal from the Unideal

By: Pattie

Pattie — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 23:44:00 +0000

A great post with some excellent points. I wasted a lot of time and energy initially trying to make sure that the phone was answered immediately at any time of day in case it was a potential client. Then after a while I realised that in fact all the prospects that had turned into great clients had come to me online via my website. I’m now considering reserving my phone number to give only to bona fide clients, whilst pushing prospects towards only email enquiries. I think your post might have given me the kick I need to do this!

By: Yelena

Yelena — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 04:39:13 +0000

Much like you, I limit the number of ways potential clients can contact me. I used to have my phone and fax # on my biz card and on my site. Now I only list my e-mail (plus ways to contact me on social networks). I did primarily because of my schedule – I’m only available to work on clients’ tasks in the evenings. So I try to manage my clients’ availability expectations from the start. They know that the best and fastest way to contact me is by e-mail. It also serves a second purpose – I can’t always record phone calls, but I save e-mails with questions, instructions, change requests, etc. for future reference.

By: Cathey

Cathey — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 02:47:19 +0000

Thanks, Danielle, for the advice. Your reasoning makes perfect sense and confirms the idea that I can’t be, and don’t wish to be, the choice for all prospects.

By: Darla Pompilio

Darla Pompilio — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 20:43:47 +0000

I absolutely agree that you should choose your clients carefully. It saves time, effort, builds better relationships and great referrals to other ideal clients.

By: Carolyn

Carolyn — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 19:38:04 +0000

You are right on with this, Danielle. Very smart to ‘funnel’ and pre-qualify potential clients. Saves time and energy! I love systems that do more than one thing.