How do you follow up with your client after submitting your proposal?

I have had projects fall apart because I did not independently confirm expectations after a proposal was submitted. Clients may choose you without fully understanding the nuances of your proposed course of action. Follow up. Explain your proposed direction in several ways. Re-explain. Decision-makers often get overcome by events and forget about the nitty gritty details.

scheduling a meeting to discuss the proposal in detail, address any questions, and gather feedback. Regular communication is maintained through emails or calls to keep the client engaged and informed about any updates or changes. This proactive approach ensures that the client feels supported throughout the decision-making process and helps in building a strong, trust-based relationship.

The 1st follow-up is a no-brainer: Ensure that (A) they received your proposal. (B) that it aligns with their expectations, then boldly ask if the pricing is in line. Sometimes you'll receive a response, and sometimes you won't, but there's no harm in asking. After that, strike the right balance because 'over-follow-up' can be somewhat annoying, and you need to pick up on cues if your quotation is unsuccessful. If you do receive confirmation that your bid wasn't successful, a request for a close-up meeting to improve for the future would be great, or at least an email with feedback. You've spent a lot of time and effort on the quote, and you deserve at least honest feedback.

In my experience, following up post-proposal is a delicate balance that requires tact, professionalism, and respect for the client's time. I agree, confirming receipt and expectations is paramount. This not only ensures my proposal has reached the client but also gives them a chance to clarify any doubts. I usually send a short, courteous email expressing my appreciation for the opportunity and restating the key points of the proposal. I also make sure to ask if they have any immediate questions or feedback. Finally, understanding their decision timeline and preferred communication mode sets clear expectations for both parties, fostering a positive client-consultant relationship.

I agree that it is important to stay on their radar while avoiding being too pushy or seeming desperate. In addition to likes/shares on LinkedIn, and sharing relevant articles/reports/case studies, you could, if appropriate, introduce them to someone in your network who could be valuable to them and/or invite them to industry networking events. It would make you seem like a long term valuable contact.

Share insights and information related to your proposal, like and share via LinkedIn, and if you know of any personal milestones or things going on, keep charter lite and friendly so you don't come off as a robot waiting for their confirmation.

I wholeheartedly agree. While awaiting a client's response, maintaining a delicate balance between assertiveness and respect for their time is crucial. Offering value-added insights is a constructive approach. By sharing relevant resources or insights, like articles, case studies, or best practices pertinent to their challenges, I can subtly reinforce my expertise and commitment. It's also a gesture of goodwill that goes beyond the contractual, showcasing my keenness to assist. This proactive engagement, I believe, enhances my credibility and underlines my passion for the work.

It is very important to keep on the radar, but being overbearing will do you more harm than justice. Keeping your follow-up message clear and concise, avoiding a lengthy response while providing value through highlighting benefits, expressing interest in hearing their thoughts or considerations, and providing a vehicle for further discussion is usually key.

- Thank the client for reviewing the proposal submitted on mention date - request and askif there are any questions or if further information is needed. - use statements which ask for feedback and indicatw excitemwnt about the potential opportunity to work together.

Absolutely, handling objections and negotiating effectively is an essential skill in strategic consulting. Should the client question aspects of my proposal, I am prepared to provide comprehensive explanations, supporting the rationale behind my approach. I listen actively to their concerns, acknowledging their needs, and work towards a mutually beneficial solution. I believe in being confident yet respectful, and cooperative rather than confrontational. My aim is to emphasize the value of my services and how I can aid the client in achieving their objectives, ensuring a productive and harmonious relationship.

Remember that objections and negotiations are often dynamic processes, and adaptability is key. Tailor your approach to the specific situation and the personalities involved. Successful objection handling and negotiation skills can lead to mutually beneficial agreements and stronger business relationships.

Confirming the agreement and outlining the next steps is an integral step in the client-consultant journey. It ensures both parties are aligned on expectations, setting a clear roadmap for the project. The use of a formal contract or letter of engagement reiterates the scope, timeline, budget, and more. This document becomes a reference point, avoiding misunderstandings later. Promptly arranging next steps like scheduling a kick-off meeting or setting up project management systems highlights efficiency and readiness to commence work. This methodical approach reflects professionalism, clarity, and preparedness.

Once you have had the opportunity to iron out objections and find common ground, providing a clear summary and expectations, as well as communicating timelines will be integral in kicking off the engagement. Lay out the next steps in black and white—whether it's setting up a kickoff meeting, diving into project management tools, or divvying up responsibilities. Its also important to prompt the client to sign and forward the contract.

I wholeheartedly agree. This will help you look collaborative organised and efficient and reassure the client that you will be able to deliver.

After resolving objections and reaching an agreement with your client, it's essential to confirm the details in writing to solidify the understanding. Outline the agreed-upon terms, including scope, timeline, deliverables, and any other pertinent information. Clearly articulate the next steps, detailing what each party is responsible for and setting expectations for ongoing communication and progress tracking. This written confirmation serves as a reference point for both parties and helps ensure alignment throughout the project's duration. It reinforces professionalism and clarity, laying a solid foundation for a successful collaboration.

A 𝐩̲𝐫̲𝐨̲𝐚̲𝐜̲𝐭̲𝐢̲𝐯̲𝐞̲ ̲𝐚̲𝐩̲𝐩̲𝐫̲𝐨̲𝐚̲𝐜̲𝐡̲ will cement your proposal and steer the conversation towards a favorable decision. Outline Next Steps: Clearly define the action items and milestones to progress forward. Set clear expectations to ensure everyone is aligned as you embark on the project together. Focus on Outcomes, Not Just Deliverables: Highlight the positive outcomes your solution will deliver for the client's business, using language that ties your services directly to their strategic objectives. Address Uncertainties Proactively: Use open-ended questions to uncover any unvoiced reservations the client may have. Show your attentiveness to their needs and your commitment to finding the right solution.

Building rapport and trust with a client is pivotal in strategic consulting. Regular communication, timely updates, and valuing their feedback fosters transparency and trust. Quick resolution of issues showcases your reliability. Expressing gratitude for their collaboration, celebrating project milestones, and offering additional insights or deliverables when possible, underline your commitment and quality of work. This approach not only strengthens the client-consultant relationship but also makes it a mutually beneficial and enriching experience.

Remember that your client isn't a monolith of one set of perspectives and needs. Do your best to understand the different people who are part of the decision and the work that you're looking to do. For some, cost might be the most important. For others, having the most possible impact is important. Helping them navigate those tensions is being a good partner and how you do your best to be a trusted advisor.

Clear communication channels post-signature of a contract are very important to the success of any engagement. Setting up project touch-points (I typically do bi-weekly or sometimes monthly) to ensure alignment on work, provide updates, and present an avenue for collaboration bodes well for the continued success of the project. Rapport building naturally happens in these meetings and it provides you the opportunity to stay up to date with the client, hear their perspective, address any concerns, and learn of further opportunities you may be able to focus on down the line.

Continuously nurturing rapport and trust with your client is vital throughout the project. Regularly communicate progress updates, milestones achieved, and any relevant insights or recommendations. Actively listen to their feedback and address any concerns promptly and effectively. Maintain a proactive approach to problem-solving and demonstrate flexibility when needed. Show genuine interest in their success and well-being, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. By consistently delivering value, maintaining transparency, and prioritizing their satisfaction, you strengthen the client relationship, paving the way for future opportunities and referrals.