{"id":20856,"date":"2019-02-20T09:35:03","date_gmt":"2019-02-20T15:35:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gigsalad.com\/blog\/?p=20856"},"modified":"2024-09-30T10:28:23","modified_gmt":"2024-09-30T15:28:23","slug":"5-keys-to-effective-communication","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gigsalad.com\/blog\/5-keys-to-effective-communication\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Keys to Effective Client Communication"},"content":{"rendered":"

Last updated on September 30, 2024<\/p>
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From the moment you start your business until after you become a seasoned professional, knowing how to effectively communicate with potential clients is key. Your success depends on being able to accurately attract new clients, send clear and helpful responses, and close the deal \u2013 again and again, over and over.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Effective client communication is especially critical when working in the events industry. There are so many questions to be answered, details to be ironed out, and expectations to clarify to ensure a successful event. Follow these simple tips to gain communication skills for booking gigs that will improve the experience for you and your client \u2013 and most importantly, get you more work!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

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1. Communicate the client’s way<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A guaranteed way to ruin a potential business relationship and stall a booking from the outset is to demand the client communicate with you on your terms. It is important to maintain a customer service mindset and to discover what means of communication works best for them. While you might prefer one form over the other, remember that \u201cthe customer is always right\u201d so do it their way.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this digital age where face-to-face communication with your customers isn’t always possible, online messaging and texting are essential for selling your product or service. Keep this in mind when responding to leads. Even if a contact number is provided, try sending a text if they don’t answer your phone call. Being flexible with your communication tactics will build comfort and credibility with your clients.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\ud83d\udcf1 Insider secre<\/strong><\/b>t<\/strong>: Texting has quickly become the go-to method in success stories we’ve heard from our users. After their introductory message on the platform, they immediately text the client’s provided phone number (because it’s likely a mobile phone). Remember, a fast response is important \u2013<\/span> the first to reply usually gets the gig!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Keep your messages simple<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We humans tend to have a short attention span, so it\u2019s important to keep your communication as short and to-the-point as possible. Your messages should be conversational, as though you\u2019re chatting with a friend. Listen<\/a> to your client – both what they are saying and not saying, respond thoughtfully with only the most relevant information, and ask follow-up questions.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try to avoid long messages with a ton of detail, especially for your initial response. Large blocks of text loaded with links can be very overwhelming. Take the time to understand their event and what they might need, and speak directly to that. Beyond an entertainer or performer, you are a problem solver. Address their needs and wants first, then offer suggestions to enhance their event. Knowing exactly what to say and how to say it is an effective communication skill you’ll perfect over time.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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\ud83d\udc49 Pro tip:<\/b> For your introductory message, send just 4 or 5 sentences. Briefly introduce your service, explain how it fits with their event, and end with a follow-up question. This will get a dialogue started. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Follow up (but don’t overdo it)<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t let a client\u2019s silence intimidate you. They may be considering the cost, comparing prices, or just distracted by life. Find the balance between overreaching and ignoring. We recommend one or two follow-up messages throughout the lifetime of the lead. When you do follow up, keep your messages short and kind \u2013 never hound or bully them into a response.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are two types of follow-up messages that are most effective:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did you get my message?<\/b> \u2013<\/span><\/span> It\u2019s okay to assume that your message simply got missed, so a follow-up message a couple of days after no response is perfectly acceptable. Reiterate any vital details from your first message so they can just respond to this new one.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

I\u2019m still available<\/b> \u2013<\/span><\/span> Sometimes you\u2019ll be talking with a seemingly-interested client, and then communication will stall with no resolution. When this happens, send the client a short message reminding them that you are still available and interested in their event. If communication stalled after you sent a quote, offer to negotiate or give them a couple of other price points to choose from.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. <\/b>Always clarify important details<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Clarity is the most important tool in executing good communication. It will help you avoid headaches and frustration with even the most difficult event planners<\/a>. Throughout the quoting process and after you’ve booked, make sure every detail is covered. Keep in mind that when you are booking shows, especially for private events, you’re being entrusted with a special occasion in someone’s life. These are experiences they can’t get back, so it’s your job to make sure it goes perfectly.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a professional, you have the answers, so be their friend in the business and take the time to explain details and processes. The lack of clarity and communication in details, process, and expectations are the greatest factors in a negative talent buyer experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Put the following details in writing:<\/h4>\n\n\n\n