A discovery call is the very first call when contracts have been sorted, and a client and I are getting down to the details of the work and expectations on both sides.
To be honest, these calls always give me butterflies.
I wish they didn’t, but at the same time, I think it’s a good sign to — meeting small business owners who are juggling responsibilities, family, and business is the coolest part of what I do.
When they’re ready for a virtual assistant or social media manager, I understand that their time matters. Preparation is key to ensure the discovery call is productive and smooth.
I always have the job details (sometimes an email, sometimes a Facebook ad or similar) at hand and prepare specific questions related to it. They usually lead this part of the conversation. I find it’s the best way to unearth more about their business needs and pain points – sometimes they may not even realise what those pain points are.
Other things we discuss, in no particular order:
* the weekly package they want: understanding their expectations helps me allocate my time effectively
* how we check in every week: setting up emails and meeting schedules is important; while weekly meetings are ideal, I’m flexible with calls or emails as life can be unpredictable.
* overview of work: this gives me a high level view of the things they need done, but also enables me to be proactive during weekly check-ins by suggestion other things I can get started on while they may be reviewing what I’ve done.
* deadlines: as a virtual assistant, I have the flexibility to choose my working hours. This might mean working late or on weekends, but rest assured, the work gets done.
* invoicing: clarity in financial matters on both sides up front makes the everything else move smoothly.
I like discovery calls for the connections I can make with other business owners – business owners like me who are balancing their small businesses responsibilities along with everything else on their plate.
Any further questions about discovery calls? Share below!