How do I go about getting a contract to design and build a website for a physiotherapist I know?

[jdub]

Hello folks,

I am out of work at the moment, I just graduated from university with a degree in computer science. I want to do a little contract work right now and I think a physiotherapist I vaguely know could benefit from having a website to attract business. My question is, how do I go about getting him to agree to pay me to do this? I have a small portfolio, but convincing him I could do the job is not my issue. Rather, I need to convince him that he needs the site, and it will add value to his business. Any tips on how I should do this? Should I book an appointment with him or just go in? Should I have a specific presentation ready?

Any tips on how any of you have undertook a similar venture would help. Or, if you just have some advice I would appreciate it.

Thanks.

 

[NurseRN]

Seeing is believing! I always design a little web page ahead of time and then I take it along on my laptop to my client. Usually, when people see how cool and practical it is to have a web site, they go for the idea. Of course, your persuasive skills are indispensable.

Hope this helps!

Nurse

 

[Workin']

Seeing is believing! I always design a little web page ahead of time and then I take it along on my laptop to my client. Usually, when people see how cool and practical it is to have a web site, they go for the idea. Of course, your persuasive skills are indispensable.

That's good advice. Whenever I have to persuade someone who is "on the fence" about whether they need a web site or not, I do the same thing.

Also, I try to find a few sites on the web that belong to similar businesses. If others are doing it that's always a really strong selling point.

Basically, schedule a time to meet with the potential client. Have your stuff organized and be as brief as possible. Have a list of reasons why a website would benefit them. Also be prepared to present any downside, because there always is one, if nothing else cost is always an issue. One problem I run into all the time is that the potential client thinks that having a website is going to bring them droves of new customers. That's usually not gonna happen, and I tell them that. But there are still plenty of other reasons why a website is valuable. You just have to think of the reasons that would be important given your client's industry and business.

And even if you already know the potential client well, don't look like a slob when you go to visit them. You don't have to wear a suit or anything like that, but I've found that looking professional goes a long towards establishing client confidence in your skills.