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Client need something done, I need to write up a quote, how do I approach it? If you have any general strategy on this issue would also be appreciated. This is to build a website/database for a few grand.

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migrated from stackoverflow.com Sep 13 '11 at 20:34

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closed as off topic by Dan Ray, Walter, ChrisF Sep 14 '11 at 22:20


Who is the client? I'd be glad to call him and ask which he'd prefer. –  Pete Wilson Sep 13 '11 at 18:36
Haha, that's funny, but I can't really do that. –  user468384 Sep 13 '11 at 18:42

3 Answers 3

up vote 1 down vote accepted

This depends on the situation and the factors involved.

If its a simple project that won't take much time or cost much money and they aren't down the street - go ahead and email, though I would definitely follow it up with a phone call. This adds a human element to your business and makes them more comfortable with you as a contractor.

However, if this is a substantial project and they aren't unreasonably far away (I drove an hour the other day to meet a potential client), get out of your chair and drive over there! You're trying to establish a business relationship and nothing smacks of a relationship better than meeting them face to face and shaking their hand.

90% of communication is non-verbal. Always remember that.

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Where "90% of communication is non-verbal" comes from? –  MainMa Sep 13 '11 at 21:11

I would call up the client, introduce yourself and ask a couple more questions to get a more detailed picture of their requirments. Even if you dont really need to it gives the impression of a personalised and proffesional service. I would then gauge by their reaction how to proceeded. (email or face to face)

Generally you don't have a client meeting before the quote is accepted but that varies hugely on circumstances.

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Write up a quote following this pattern:

  1. Always start by introducing yourself, what your company (or yourself) does, and what you can do for your prospective client.
  2. Define a problem, the customers' need to be satisfied.
  3. Propose a solution.
  4. Determine costs.
  5. Define terms: payment, deliverables, whats included, whats not (support, etc.) and be clear about it.
  6. Contact info.

Then send it by email in PDF format. Personal contact for quote delivery is not necessary, unless you are pithcing an idea (client isn't sure of what he wants).

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