Set expectations in writing
Before starting, confirm in a short message: what you will deliver, by when, what you need from the client, how many revisions are included and how you will communicate. Most conflicts come from expectations that were never written down.
Short, regular updates
A three-line update every week is worth more than a long report at the end. Say what was done, what comes next and whether you need anything. Clients who hear from you do not worry.
- Done this week: ...
- Next week: ...
- I need from you: ...
Handle mistakes openly
You will make mistakes. Tell the client quickly, explain what happened in one sentence, fix it and say what you changed so it does not happen again. Handled well, a mistake can increase trust.
Ask for feedback and referrals
At the end of a project, ask two questions: "What was most useful?" and "Who else do you know who has the same problem?" Satisfied clients are often happy to introduce you, but they rarely think of it on their own.
Example
A Friday update
"Hello Sara, this week I replied to 14 reviews and updated your menu on Google. Next week: photos of the new terrace. I need: the opening hours for the holiday period. Have a good weekend."
Prompt to try
Replace the [brackets] with your own details and review the result before using it.
Write a short weekly update email to my client [name, business]. This week I did: [tasks]. Next week: [tasks]. I need from them: [items]. Tone: warm and professional, maximum 80 words.
Exercise
Write the update email you will send to clients every Friday.
