What To Do To Get Referrals: Substitution - Four Ways | Preparation

It’s easy to see why Sub requests without an InfoMinute are not as attractive.

What do you do to prepare your clients for an easy experience with you?

Do you send them information in advance?

Call the day before to confirm?

Ask a question that provokes them to process their goals?

Andy Leonard

Response from Andy Leonard

from the Milton Team

"Your calling called, get back to doing that you love."  Accel Financial Services is company that helps put the business owner back to do what they love; back to their calling, while simultaneously driving their future.  We eliminate the 'work hard and see where you finish', constantly trying to make the next cash funding for payroll, where does the next client come from, what is the true markeing plan vs throwing dollars at advertising, ... all a rut that so many business owners get stuck in when they have to run the entire business and get pulled away from their passion.

First, we understand their GOALS.  "What do you want this business to be?  What do you want to make sure it does not become?"  You can give a business to 5 different people and in 5 years, you will have 5 different businesses, becuase everyone has different goals and defintions of what they want their business to be and become.

Second, we eplain to them our proven Accel process for achieving RESULTS.  Here is how our process works, the different components, how the components work, work together, in what order, to all add up to the achieving the specific definition of success for themsleves, their customers, their employees, and their own company.

Next, we explain how we will work together as a cohsive unit.  Here is what you do, where is what we do, here is how we work together, how we leverage process to get results and turn their goals into reality.

Then we merge it all together: here are your goals for your company, here are the actions we take to turn those goals into reality, with a timeline of specific time based deliverables assigned to specific parties.

By starting off uncerstanding their vision and goals, by explaining our process, and understanding the why, thinking with the end in mind, we end up with a self-fulfilling prophecy that turns dreams into goals and goals into clear executable actions which then turns those dreams become REALITY!

No more working hard and see where you finish, but work with clear executable steps.

That preparation gets us synced up and ready to turn dreams into reality!

 

Bill Weaver

Response from Bill Weaver

from the Milton Team

I ask my client questions to understand the details of their situation and what they want to achieve.  I explain the process, the time frame and the cost at the time of scheduling the appointment. I send the client a reminder of the appointment the day before the appointment. Then I explain the results and answer their questions.

Dr. Michael Axt

Response from Dr. Michael Axt

from the Milton Team

There are two categories of patients - Those who have seen a chiro in the past and those who have not. Inherently, there is fear of the unknown for many first time patients. After exam, and before beginning with any treatment, I do my best to thoroughly explain treatment style and expected outcome. This way those unfamiliar with chiropractic are able to feel more comfortable with the process and those who have seen chiros in the past are able to tell which treatment methods have been successful or unsuccessful for them in the past. Some people do not like their neck to be touched, some people request adjustments that don't make a "pop", others prefer massage style techniques only. 

Persephone Galambos

Response from Persephone Galambos

from the Milton Team

When I begin working with clients, I email (and give a printed version) them my guide to Buying and/or selling a home (depending on if they are buying/selling/both). This guide provides comprehensive information about the buying/selling process. In addition, they receive emails throughout the process that provides them with reminders, deadlines that are approaching and additional information as necessary so they understand each step in the process. 

Jim Miskell

Response from Jim Miskell

from the Milton Team

I have a system that confirms the intitial contact, appointment date and time, links to educational material, sends an intake information form, and than follows up with a phone and email reminder the business day before each client meeting.  The reminders are an opportunity for staff to follow up on any client "homework" and to identify issues that may need to be addressed during the next meeting.  Clients who prefer to meet virutally but are uncertain about using the technology get to  a "practice" zoom session with staff so it is less of a worry on the day of the appointment.

DeWitte Thompson III

Response from DeWitte Thompson III

from the Milton Team

Many times new personal training clients that come to me can feel very apprehensive. I've found it's important and helpful to the client to be very transparent with them about what to expect. During our first phone call, I make sure they know what to expect during the consultation. During our consultation, I make sure they know what to expect during our first session. And during our actual sessions, I make sure they understand what to expect during and after our workouts. I've found the more information my clients have, the more comfortable they are and the more successful they are.

Eric Sapoznik

Response from Eric Sapoznik

from the Milton Team

Preparing my clients and explaining the process is a huge and very critical part of my process. Many times it will start with an email or a phone call, but I try to set up our first meeting at their current business location. They may have immediate questions or needs, and in those instances I can help to provide them with more information or details about their specific needs. I also make sure that they understand from the first contact that I am always available for them to contact me at any time by phone, email or text. My days of working in IT helped to make me always aware of my response times. 

When we meet, I start by getting to know them. I want to know about their business, how long they've been in business, how many employees do they have, and do they have customers coming to their location or only their employees. After that, the most important questions are what are the things they love and hate about their current space along with what they need or wish they had for their next space. There are many reasons for a business owner to think about moving. With my help and connecting them to other great referral partners, I can help them to enjoy and benefit from the process instead of it being a dread and just hoping to get it done as soon as possible. 

As I've heard many people say, "You don't know what you don't know." Commercial Real Estate is an industry with so many areas to watch out for, that my biggest key is to give my clients the expectations in advance and preparing them for what can or will happen and to protect and guide them along the way. I want to make sure they are ready and help them to make the best decision possible for their next business space!

Katie Moore

Response from Katie Moore

from the Milton Team

It's important to me that I build rapport with my business owner clients and that I make them feel at ease. Some of my clients have never dealt with an attorney before me, and that in itself can be a stressor.

So during our initial conversations I will be asking about their plans for the business, about their hopes for the future, and the specific issue or issues that have caused them to contact me. When appropriate, I provide as many resources as I can (my PowerCore relationships are fantastic for this!) even before the client receives a flat-fee proposal and decides to engage my firm.

Madeline Chryst

Response from Madeline Chryst

from the Milton Team

I asked questions in the beginning that determine where they're at in the process. I also send them a text when I am in route to their house to confirm my ETA

Anya Leybovich

Response from Anya Leybovich

from the Milton Team

When I first speak with an individual, I want to learn more about thier current situation and needs. (Everyone needs to vent.) I advise them of the next steps, process, and timeline so that they are prepared for the difference between working with an agent vs getting a quote online. I to set up a time to go over any questions on the phone so that there is no misunderstanding or miscommunication. Sometimes the timing is not best to make a switch due to claims or other factors. In these situations I set up a follow up in the future to revisit options. 

Stacey Brustein

Response from Stacey Brustein

from the Milton Team

With mortgages there are a lot of moving parts, so ensuring I have all I can gather up front will make the process much easier for my clients, my team and me. Similar to a PowerCore coffee, If I have a lead or scheduled call, I always send a text or email the day before to confirm we are still all for our meeting, even if they have a scheduled appointment on my calendly which also reminds them. I generally answer my phone whether it be morning, noon or night on any day of the week, but if I am on a call or not able to I call back promptly. I work with my clients throughout their whole journey from our initial chat, pre approval, the loan process, being there with them at closing and beyond. When I first speak with someone, I ask their wants, needs, and what I need to know to qualify them like what they do for work, their income, and how they get paid. To understand which loans will work best for them, I also ask how much they have for a down payment currently and how they plan to get the rest. For my Reverse clients, I also work with them based on how they best communicate and their ability to get me what I need. I am happy to meet them and get what I need if that is easiest for them. Once they are pre- approved or putting in an offer on a home, I will already have some documents I used to ensure I have their income correct, and then I send a list of the majority of others items needed.  For a refinance, I send that either when they are pre approved or when they pull the trigger. During the process, my processor and I guide them with each step of what is next, then, once they get the clear to close, we prepare them for closing.  We securely send them the wiring instructions to send their funds needed to close, remind them to bring their photo ID, make sure they know where they are going, and then I am there to make sure the closing goes smoothly.  Throughout the process, we also communicate with both agents, appraisal company if needed and the attorney. Communication is Key! Thank you!

Jimmy D! Dunnavant

Response from Jimmy D! Dunnavant

from the Fayette Team

There are travel advisors, it seems, on every street corner.  How we stand out is the relationships we build and the information we provide.  I send trip summaries and cruise outlines to my clients describing ports, the ship and even shore excursions.  Then, a couple weeks prior to departure we host a Zoom call to walk through the entire trip and make sure all is good.  Of course along the way we send tips and tricks to help reduce the anxiety and build the anticipation.  

Jennifer Kwon

Response from Jennifer Kwon

from the Milton Team

As an independent wine consultant, one of the things that I do weekly in order to prepare for client meetings is to familiarize myself with Scout & Cellar’s inventory. I want to make sure that I know what wines and other products have been added and what items are not currently available. I typically use my first phone call or in person meeting with a prospective client as an easy time of getting to know each other. I want my prospective client to know that Scout & Cellar does not use pesticides, food dyes, sugar, or sugar substitutes. Everything is tested by a third-party laboratory. After filling them in on the core principles and values, I typically ask questions to get to know him or her if this is our first time meeting. I want to learn about their likes and dislikes, especially regarding adult beverages, such as wine. This information will help me suggest items from our current inventory. I also want to know whether they are planning any events in the near future. If there is an event coming up, then I mention that I can bring wine for a tasting and/or help them order wine to have available for their guests. 

Tom Wallace

Response from Tom Wallace

from the Peachtree City Team

When a client decides to move forward with me I send a series of three onboarding emails that explain what they can expect from me as well as what I expect from them as well as a link to my Coaching Agreement that they sign.  The next email has a link for payment and the final email gives them access to my resource page with all the videos and exercises we'll use during our coaching together including my 15-minute spending plan mini-course that they use for their first assignment before we initially meet which is to create a budget.

During our first coaching meeting, one of the things I point out is that this process is simple, but not easy.  Simple because we're talking easy math and easy concepts.  It is not easy because the process of getting control of their money can be a grind that can be difficult at times and take perseverance.

Scot Goldring

Response from Scot Goldring

from the Milton Team

Two ways I make it easy for my business owner clients and why they enjoy working with me :

1. The prospective client and I discuss their business and what services would be impactful for our client and how and why they would be impactful. I follow up with a proposal that specifically lists the Services to be performed, when they will be performed and the fees involved. 95+% of the time they know exactly what will happen, and it is easy for the prospect to become a client with our digital proposals. 

2. I am available to the client for problems, challenges and questions they have. I ask them to always start with an email explanation. I can reply well by email, and always within a reasonable time. If not, then we set up a Teams meeting so I can share documents or hear why the answer I have not provided is not sufficient. The goal is for the business owner client to always feel in control and understand or know the Tax and Financial implications to help them make better decisions. 

Renea Ash

Response from Renea Ash

from the Roswell 400 Team

It’s important to establish myself as the problem solver to my client’s photographic efforts. Whether it’s a headshot or business branding session, solving their problem starts with a collaborative call to map out the key elements of the photo session. This ensures my clients have a clear understanding of how I can help them and what the session entails.  To further reinforce the plan, I send out a series of communications in the days leading up to the session.  This includes details like the location, the date and any important items to remember.  The frequency of these touchpoints happens 7, 3, and 1 day before the session.  It helps clients feel informed and prepared.  Using a multi-faceted approach sets my clients up for success and a stress-free experience.  

Alex Freeland

Response from Alex Freeland

from the Milton Team

I set the expectation from the beginning during our initial phone or in person conversation.  If this is a new prospective relationship I tell them it is a two step process.  

Our 1st conversation will be to understand you, your family, and your business if they are a business owner.  We will identify and prioritize the goals they wish to achieve both personally and professionally; understand their current financial picture; identify and understand their unique tolerance to risk; and share information on our team and the resources available through our team and firm.  I take that information and build a 1st draft of our Wealth Building and Retirement plan (WBR Plan) designed to achieve their outlined life/business goals that we will go through in our next conversation.  

The 2nd conversation we will go through their WBR plan, answer their questions, and provide proposed investment strategies designed to achieve their outlined goals, within their time horizon, and tolerance to risk.  We will also establish an accountability system for periodic reviews to ensure they are staying on track or adjust the plan based on life or economic changes.  They will also receive via email monthly educational information published by our Merrill Chief Investment Office (CIO) called The Viewpoint.  The Viewpoint shares information on our firm's view on the markets and economy along with asset allocation recommendations.

The first question I ask when meeting with any new individual, family, or business owner is, "What jobs do you want the money you earn and save to do for you, your family, and your business (if they are a business owner)."  From there the conversation will go deeper where my main objective is to ask questions and listen to understand what is most important to them.  

Brian Walker

Response from Brian Walker

from the Milton Team

I ask my clients they goals they want to achieve by using our services and then develop a plan of action for them to review and sign off.

Vandana Iyengar

Response from Vandana Iyengar

from the Milton Team

As a kitchen & bath designer I like to explain my process and the significance of my role in the remodeling project. At the initial conversation, I let them know about the design fee that I charge to draw and design their kitchen or bath. I detail what is included and how I apply that fee towards the project should they move ahead with me.  I like to highlight the value & expertise that I bring to the table and how I work with the contractor and other subs to get the project complete. I try and understand the scope of the project, timelines, the client's budget and their expectations. I schedule the consultation and send them a calendar invite. I also send an initial questionnaire which is detailed and asks questions pertaining to the home owner's style, aesthetic, budget etc. This helps me during the consultation process as it prepares me to guide them in the right way and make suggestions reagrding cabinet lines etc. In addition to all this I emphasize to my clients the white glove service they will receive while working with me. 

Desiree Doucet

Response from Desiree Doucet

from the Milton Team

I always enjoy doing business with someone who makes it easy to do business with - so I aim to ensure that clients can book sessions with me, pay, and communicate in effective and efficient methods. I offer choices if my standard procedures don't fit their preferences (some people prefer to have phone calls vs. Zoom meetings, others prefer to book sessions via text or a quick call vs. using my online calendar tool). I aim to be flexible and provide self-service tools for those who prefer that route.

I also ensure any appointments are booked and they receive an invitation via email to the meeting - along with built-in reminders that send email and text reminders of the meeting 1 day and a few hours before the meeting day and time.

Soul Ongoiba

Response from Soul Ongoiba

from the North Gwinnett Team

I start every session with 1 minutes close eyes  and lets get centered and present to this moment .

Heidi Franz

Response from Heidi Franz

from the Newnan Team

To ensure a smooth and efficient experience for potential clients, I implement a structured onboarding process. Initially, I send a detailed questionnaire designed to gain a comprehensive understanding of their business size, specific needs, and challenges. This information is essential for tailoring my services to their unique requirements.

To facilitate scheduling, I offer prospective clients the convenience of booking appointments directly through a digital calendar. This streamlined approach eliminates back-and-forth communication and saves time for both parties.

To confirm the meeting and address any last-minute questions, I make a brief phone call the day prior to the scheduled appointment.

During our initial meeting, I ask clients to identify their primary business challenges or "pressure points." This question encourages them to reflect on their business's current state and how they envision my expertise contributing to their success. By understanding their goals and pain points from the outset, I can effectively demonstrate how my services align with their needs.