What To Do To Get Referrals: Leadership | 2nds

If a client is in your office every week, you only confirm when something has changed.

First-time clients and those who see you less frequently need more.

 

What are you extremely careful to clarify, about your process and purpose, with first time clients?

Do other people in you company cover that information too?

Patty Williamson

Response from Patty Williamson

from the Sugarloaf Team

When working with first time clients in my industry most of the time that means they have never bought a home or obtained a mortgage before.  I make sure to explain the mortgage process by acknowleding there are a lot of moving parts which also invoolves a lot of documentation needed to purchase a home. They may feel overwhelmed at times and that's ok, I am here to walk them through each step of the loan process and help them acheive their goal of owning a home with limited stress.  I also make sure to go over the dos and don'ts during the loan process.  For example, do pay your bills on time, do continue working at your job, don't take out any new debt, don't make any large purchases, don't quit your job or change jobs without talking to me first.  I want to be a resource for them through out the entire process and even after they have moved into their home.  

Lisa  French

Response from Lisa French

from the Sugarloaf Team

First time buyers and sellers needs a lot of handholding throughout the entire process.  Our initial meeting is to give a general overview of the process and do some fact finding..I need to understand their needs, concerns and timelines.  From their, I tailor my services to best match their requirements and present my value proposition, answering any additional questions they may have.  Once we have established that we are a good fit for eachother, we review the appropriate Brokerage Engagement Contract and I section by section; as well as answer their questions so I can be comfortable that they fully understand the paperwork being signed.  In the final portion of our meeting, we discuss the next steps in whichever journey we are about to embark on and what they should expect as far as timelines, stress levels and emotions as most first timers don't realize how overwhelming the process can be so we have the conversation as a reflection point for them to understand the "normalness" of their feelings when the time comes.

Robert Jackson

Response from Robert Jackson

from the Sugarloaf Team

One of the main things that we, as financial advisors, need to be sure to clarify, is that there are no guarantees in our business.  Past history is not a way to predict future results.  A lot of times we can look at the performance of a particular investment and have an idea of what might happen, but there is no promise that it will perform that way.  On top of this discussion, we also email, or hand deliver, our compliance piece that goes over what we have told them about investing.

Ryan Williams

Response from Ryan Williams

from the Senoia Team

Search Engine Optimization is a long game. Content Marketing can take up to 6 months of consistent posting before clients see significant results. Local SEO can start working faster, but it still may be several weeks before results are impactful. Even pay-per-click campaigns can take a little time to train, so they are producing reliable results at the highest possible conversion rates. So, when onboarding clients, I am clear that being successful with these digital marketing activities will require patience and consistency. I get them to make a realistic initial commitment before proceeding. I establish clear KPIs and measurement criteria, set realistic timelines, and openly communicate progress and adjustments. Over time, I focus on trending improvements rather than daily fluctuations and help my clients learn to recognize within their data how their early investments pay long-term dividends.

Jennifer Flores

Response from Jennifer Flores

from the Sugarloaf Team

With first time clients,  I am very careful to clarify what I understand to be the issue they are having and the outcome they are seeking.  I ask about habits and whether they have any allergies.  I let them know that I want them to choose the product that is best for them and will provide the outcome they are seeking.  I walk them through the ordering process and let them know when they can expect to receive their products.  I don't know whether other consultants cover all of that information or not, as we are all independent.

Tom Wallace

Response from Tom Wallace

from the Peachtree City Team

When I begin working with my clients, our first meeting covers expectations.  This is both of what I expect of them and also what they can expect of me.  I stress that geting their finances in order is a process not an event...it takes time.  As for what they can expect from me is that I will hold them accountable to the process and and as long as they do the work, I will do all that I can to ensure their success.

Andres Inciarte

Response from Andres Inciarte

from the Sugarloaf Team

I am always careful to clarify timelines as we focus on sales and ease of use. Our websites may take longer than others as we carefully work with clients to deliver a clear message that sells.

Clients are always in the loop and contacted multiple times per week to understand our current progress. Even when done with their project, my team members will notify them of changes and progress of their website during maintenance.

Sean Johnsen

Response from Sean Johnsen

from the Sugarloaf Team

When working with first-time clients, I am extremely careful to clarify several key aspects of my process and purpose, 1st I emphasize that my primary goal is to understand their unique needs and circumstances. This means asking detailed questions to tailor insurance solutions that best fit their situation. Then I clarify the range of services I provide, including policy options, coverage details, and claims assistance. It’s important for clients to know that I am here to guide them through the entire insurance process. I then take the time to explain the different types of insurance products available, including their benefits, limitations, and any exclusions. This helps clients make informed decisions.

Most important of all I make it clear that my approach is consultative rather than sales-driven. I want clients to feel comfortable taking their time to understand their options without feeling pressured to make immediate decisions.

Bob Wiggs

Response from Bob Wiggs

from the Sugarloaf Team

KMT Systems is a family owned business.  Tommy has been in business for 18+ years in the same location.  You dont stay in business unless you are doing things right.  The company backs me up when I explain that honesty and integrity are very important in gaining customers respect and trust.  Without the owners support, service and quality are not as important.  Unlike our larger competitors, we take a family outlook at our staff and our customers.  We treat all of our customers and our communities like family and make sure that all understand that we are always visable and available to chat about the weather or whats up with their system.  We do really care about neighborhoods being safe.  And working with KMT is the best way to do that.

Christopher  Lyboldt

Response from Christopher Lyboldt

from the Roswell 400 Team

When I meet first-time clients, I make it a priority to clarify exactly how my role as an Elder Care Advisor works, especially because few people are familiar with what an advisor like me does. I start by explaining that I’m here to guide families through the maze of senior care options, help them identify the right fit for their loved one, and offer resources in home care, legal needs, and Medicaid planning. My goal is to simplify this complex process while handling emotionally sensitive conversations with care and respect.

A crucial part of this first conversation is discussing how I’m compensated. I let clients know that I’m paid by the senior living communities they ultimately choose, not by the clients themselves. This is essential because it prevents any confusion about my services being free of charge to them, and it encourages them to work through me rather than contacting communities directly, which ensures I can be compensated for my guidance.

Since I’m the only person in my business, I cover all this information myself to ensure it’s communicated thoroughly and thoughtfully right from the start.

Amanda Williams

Response from Amanda Williams

from the Sugarloaf Team

When I sit with clients for the first time, I clarify my value to them that also supports my purpose and my process to ensure I show care for their time and their business. By starting with my value, it sets the tone for this interaction and future interactions to show support. As time is one of the most valuable commodities, I always have that at the fore front of my mind. Paying attention to detail helps eliminate unexpected and inconvenient visits to my office. 

Nola Faulkner

Response from Nola Faulkner

When working with first time clients in elder law, sometimes they don't know what to expect. I always share with my clients a little bit about myself, who I am as a person and what I value personally. My intensions are to help them understand that I will follow up and be thorough with them and make sure that they are satisfied with their experience. I explain the process so that they understand what to expect and what to look forward to. I also extend my contact information and encourage them to call, text or e-mail me with questions as they arise after our initial meeting.

Jose Valentin

Response from Jose Valentin

from the Senoia Team

Well, as far as my office goes it changes with every home I do.  when discussing an estimate with my clients, I'm always sure to let them know my involvement during the project at hand.  I am always there on the opening day of the project throughout and the day we close finish.      I send my clients updates via CompanyCam more often time than not to make sure they stay as updated as possible throughout the project. This way, there's no surprises. Information and communication is key. 

Heidi Franz

Response from Heidi Franz

from the Newnan Team

When I meet with first-time clients, I'm extremely careful to clarify my entire process and the purpose behind each step. I begin by explaining that we'll start with a detailed client interview to understand their business operations, goals, and aspirations. This initial conversation is crucial because it allows me to tailor my services to meet their specific needs effectively.

I also discuss how we'll select and set up the appropriate accounting software—whether it's QuickBooks Online or Xero—based on what's best suited for their business. I emphasize the importance of having the right tools in place from the beginning to ensure accurate and efficient bookkeeping and financial reporting.

Another key point I clarify is the ongoing communication I'll maintain with their tax preparer or CPA. Collaborating closely with these professionals ensures that all financial records are aligned with tax requirements, and we're proactively addressing any potential issues. This teamwork is essential for keeping their finances in optimal condition.

Since I personally handle all aspects of my services, I make sure to cover all necessary information directly with my clients. By thoroughly explaining my process and purpose, I aim to make first-time clients feel comfortable and confident in the services I'll provide, setting the foundation for a successful partnership.

Drew Harrison

Response from Drew Harrison

from the East Cobb Team

I am very up front with new clients about my process for applying to underwritten policies. This is how I prepare them after going over a health coverage summary.

I want to make it very clear that when I go through these medical questions with them, it really is more of a formality. I need them to understand that while they may answer one way, I need them to be honest with me, because at the end of the day, the underwriters LOOK.

I want to be as effective and efficient as possible, and not waste a clients time applying for something they will just end up getting declined for.

Ledia Regis

Response from Ledia Regis

from the Cumberland Team

I want clients expectations of the process to be addressed at the first consultation on both parts. I will explain what service I will provide and what I expect from them.

Liz Taylor

Response from Liz Taylor

from the Sugarloaf Team

As a coach, I always clarify the difference between coaching, counseling, and consulting.  Coaching requires time and effort on the part of my clients. There are a few similarities between a business coach and a sports coach. An athlete doesn't get stronger, faster, or better because they hired a coach. The athlete gets better because they put in the work that the coach outlines to achieve the desired goals. I want to be clear about the time commitment before we start a coaching engagement so that it is not a waste of time or money for my client.  Coaching focuses on moving forward and making changes. With new clients, a first step is always clearly defining their goals because it is not productive to "move forward" if that progress moves them in a direction that does not ultimately serve them. 

Christian Simmons

Response from Christian Simmons

from the Sugarloaf Team

I make sure to lay out the entire process and what to expect when it comes to obtaining Life and/or Disability Insurance. I feel as though most clients are worried about the unknown so I help them ease that feeling with upfront communication. Some people in my company may communicate a little differently because of their systems but we all understand communication is key. At the end of the day I make sure I understand the client goals, why the goals are important, and express that their opinion matters. I want them to always voice their opinions.