Stop Wasting Time with Prospects Who Aren’t Serious

Over the past two weeks, I’ve written about how we allow clients and prospects to mistreat us and shared my seven steps to a having well-trained client. During that time, I’ve read well over a hundred comments from web designers and developers eager to share their experiences. While some didn’t have a problem saying “no” to clients who pushed the boundaries, others found themselves caving into unreasonable demands, agreeing to do additional work free of charge, or waiting indefinitely to receive payment because of clients who never sent content. Many feel justifiably mistreated or abused. Yet, focusing exclusively on how frustrating or upsetting this is only serves to keep you victimized. If things are to change, you first must take responsibility for allowing clients treat you this way, and then take the necessary action steps to stop it. After all, if you continue doing what you’ve always done, and you’ll keep on getting what you’ve always got. Here are some actionable steps you can put in place tomorrow that will change your situation immediately.

Action Step #1: Attempt to “Disqualify” Prospects Early-On

What this Solves:

Wasting time with prospects aren’t serious, have no budget, or expect a lot of work for minimal money It happens all the time. You get a hot lead or a referral, so you pick up the phone, set an appointment, then drive across town to meet him … only to find out he’s not so hot after all.

My top pet peeve is ‘prospects’ who want to talk web design with me for what seems like hours on end but don’t actually have a budget. I don’t mind talking about how I do things or advising people without a budget how to get a good web presence for free. What I don’t like is prospects who tell me they want me to create them the best website possible, perfectly tailored to their business, and are then shocked that I want to charge them more than the price of a pizza. If the whole process is over quickly then it’s no big loss, but those who need to make sure you understand their whole vision for their business before they get to the bit where they don’t want to pay, those people waste time and energy I don’t have to spare. – Richard Coates, owner of web firm Anatomy of Restlessness

Save yourself that 45 minute drive and a fruitless two hour meeting by having a preliminary telephone conversation first, to determine if there’s even a reason to meet. It may seem counter-intuitive, but actively attempt to “disqualify” him as a potential client by looking for show-stoppers—reasons why you can’t do business together. What qualifies as a show-stopper? Discovering the prospect thinks $300 is a lot of money for a website when your base price starts at five times that amount. Or someone who pretends to be a buyer but only wants a price quote to reassure themselves that their current developer isn’t overcharging. I can go on and on.

Ask Probing Questions to Uncover Needs and Wants

You need to have a sales process in place, one that includes asking the right questions. I have a list of questions I ask during the initial phone conversation, and a set of more detailed ones for the face-to-face meeting. One of those initial questions is:

“A basic site starts at $XXXX. Are you prepared to spend that much?”

Follow me on Twitter and I’ll send you my free guide, 27.5 Must-Ask Questions for Consultative Selling

Overcoming Obstacles

When it comes to selling your services, there are two things you can’t overcome: ignorance and poverty. A preliminary phone conversation should weed out both, so by the time you actually meet with the prospect, you’ll already know what he’s trying to accomplish, and that he wants it, needs it, and can afford it. Inquiring about both want and need may seem redundant, but they’re not the same thing. He may want it, but he may not need it badly enough to be willing to pay a fair price for it. He may need it, but not want the type of solution you provide. Or, he can need it and want it, but if he can’t pay for it … well, we both know how that’s going to end. I’ve found that a preliminary conversation before a face-to-face meeting helps get the process “over quickly.” Remember, if you’re going to lose, lose early. Once you do actually meet, continue looking for show-stoppers. Once all of these have been eliminated, there’s no reason not to do business together, is there? Yes, it really is that simple. Next week: Action Step #2: How to stop giving away too much free information

This is Part 3 of the series Putting a Stop to Abusive Client Behavior:

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Frequently Asked Questions about Time Management and Dealing with Prospects

How can I identify serious prospects from time-wasters?

Identifying serious prospects from time-wasters can be a challenging task. However, there are a few signs you can look out for. Serious prospects are usually decisive, responsive, and show a genuine interest in your product or service. They ask relevant questions, are open to discussions, and are willing to invest their time and resources. On the other hand, time-wasters are often indecisive, unresponsive, and show little to no interest in your offerings. They may ask irrelevant questions, avoid discussions, and are reluctant to invest their time and resources.

What strategies can I use to avoid wasting time with non-serious prospects?

There are several strategies you can use to avoid wasting time with non-serious prospects. First, qualify your prospects early on. Ask them relevant questions to gauge their interest and commitment. Second, set clear expectations. Let them know what they can expect from you and what you expect from them. Third, prioritize your prospects. Focus on those who show the most potential and are most likely to convert. Lastly, don’t be afraid to say no. If a prospect is clearly not serious, it’s better to cut your losses and move on.

How can I effectively manage my time when dealing with prospects?

Effective time management when dealing with prospects involves planning, prioritizing, and setting boundaries. Plan your day in advance and allocate specific time slots for prospecting. Prioritize your prospects based on their potential and interest. Set boundaries by limiting the time you spend with each prospect and avoiding unnecessary meetings. Also, make use of technology. There are numerous tools and apps available that can help you manage your time more efficiently.

How can I improve my prospecting skills?

Improving your prospecting skills requires practice, patience, and continuous learning. Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in prospecting. Attend workshops, seminars, and training programs. Read books and articles on the subject. Practice your skills regularly and seek feedback from your peers and mentors. Also, learn from your mistakes and failures. They are often the best teachers.

How can I deal with rejection from prospects?

Dealing with rejection from prospects can be tough, but it’s a part of the sales process. Don’t take it personally. Instead, view it as an opportunity to learn and improve. Ask for feedback and try to understand why the prospect rejected your offer. Use this information to refine your approach and improve your chances of success in the future. Also, maintain a positive attitude. Rejection is not the end of the world. There are plenty of other prospects out there.

How can I motivate myself to keep prospecting despite the challenges?

Motivating yourself to keep prospecting despite the challenges can be difficult. However, there are a few strategies you can use. Set clear and achievable goals. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Stay focused on the bigger picture and remember why you started in the first place. Also, take care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest can do wonders for your motivation and energy levels.

How can I build strong relationships with my prospects?

Building strong relationships with your prospects involves trust, communication, and value. Show genuine interest in your prospects and their needs. Listen to them and respond to their concerns. Provide them with valuable information and solutions. Be honest and transparent in your dealings. Also, follow up regularly and show appreciation for their time and interest.

How can I convert prospects into customers?

Converting prospects into customers requires a combination of effective communication, persuasion, and value proposition. Understand your prospects’ needs and wants. Tailor your communication and offerings to meet these needs. Persuade them of the benefits and value of your product or service. Provide excellent customer service and follow up regularly. Also, make the buying process as easy and convenient as possible for them.

How can I maintain a healthy work-life balance while prospecting?

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance while prospecting involves setting boundaries, prioritizing, and taking care of your health. Set clear boundaries between your work and personal life. Prioritize your tasks and focus on what’s most important. Take regular breaks and make time for relaxation and leisure activities. Also, take care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest can help you stay productive and balanced.

How can I stay motivated and positive in the face of rejection and failure?

Staying motivated and positive in the face of rejection and failure can be challenging. However, it’s important to remember that rejection and failure are part of the learning process. They provide valuable lessons and opportunities for growth. Stay focused on your goals and remember why you started in the first place. Surround yourself with positive and supportive people. Also, take care of your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and adequate rest can help boost your mood and energy levels.