Ace your discovery call with this discovery call template

Ace your next discovery call with this discovery call template!

Are you a freelancer gearing up for a pivotal discovery call with a potential client? If you’re looking for a foolproof discovery call template or script to ace the conversation, you’ve landed in the perfect place. This go-to guide is designed specifically for freelancers like you who are aiming to master the art of discovery calls. Let’s ensure your next client interaction not only meets but exceeds expectations. Let’s dive in by understanding what a discovery call is and why it’s important.

Table of contents:

  1. What Is A Discovery Call?
  2. Why Are Discovery Calls Important?
  3. Best Practices For Setting Up A Discovery Call
  4. Discovery Call Template To Ace Your Next Client Call
  5. Conclusion

What Is A Discovery Call?

A discovery call is a first conversation between you and a potential client.  It provides an opportunity for you and a client to introduce each other, discuss project details, and build a foundation for a successful collaboration. The discovery call sets the tone for the entire project. Think of it as a virtual meet-and-greet where you can ask questions, showcase your expertise, and ensure you fit the client’s needs.

Set up your discovery call on CheckYa for free


Why Are Discovery Calls Important?

    • Understanding Your Client’s Needs: A discovery call is your window into the client’s world. It’s a chance for you to grasp the nuances of the project, understand the client’s goals, and figure out how to tailor your services to meet their unique needs.
    • Building Personal Connections: Personal connections can get lost in emails and messages in the digital age. A discovery call adds that personal touch, allowing you to connect on a human level, establish rapport, and build trust.
    • Clarifying Expectations: No one likes surprises, especially in freelancing. A discovery call is where you and the client align expectations. It’s the perfect time to discuss timelines, project details, and potential challenges, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
    • Showcasing Your Expertise in Real-Time: Words on a screen can only convey so much. A discovery call is where you can showcase your skills in real time. It’s an opportunity to answer questions, provide insights, and demonstrate why you’re the perfect freelancer for the job.
    • Setting the Foundation for Success: Success in freelancing starts with a strong foundation and discovery calls are your bedrock. By ironing out details, understanding expectations, and building a positive relationship, you set the stage for successful collaborations and long-term partnerships.
    • Tailoring Solutions to Client Requirements: You aren’t one-size-fits-all, nor are your solutions. Discovery calls allow you to customize your approach based on each client’s specific needs and goals. This tailored strategy sets the foundation for a successful project outcome.

Best Practices For Setting Up A Discovery Call:

  • Make Your Booking Process Easier: Simplify the booking process for your clients by leveraging tools like CheckYa. With CheckYa, you can take discovery call bookings directly from your social media link in bio, website, emails, and more. This user-friendly approach makes it convenient for clients to book a time that suits you best. You can set notice periods before the calls, add breaks to your availability, and ensure an easy experience for both you and your clients.
  • Set the Stage: Before the call, share relevant materials or insights to set expectations and provide a foundation for the discussion.
  • Active Listening: During the call, hone your active listening skills. Understand your client’s needs, challenges, and aspirations. This forms the basis of a successful collaboration.
  • Post-Call Recap: Follow up with a summary of key points discussed during the call. It demonstrates professionalism and ensures everyone is on the same page.

Now that we understand what is a discovery call, its importance, and best practices for setting one upsetting up a discovery call, lets jump right in to the discovery call template. 


Discovery Call Template To Ace Your Next Client Call :

This discovery call template is your cheat sheet for talking with potential clients. It’s a step-by-step guide to help you figure out what the client really needs and expects during your first chat. This template is all about making those initial conversations count. Let’s break down each part of this template to make your discovery calls smooth and effective.

How to ace your next discovery call?


1. Introduction:

Begin with a warm greeting and a brief introduction of yourself. Share a sentence or two about your background and expertise. Encourage the client to introduce themselves as well.

Example:

    • Hello [Client’s Name], I’m [Your Name], a social media manager passionate about helping businesses thrive online. I love working with diverse brands to enhance their social presence. How can I help you today?
    • Hi [Client’s Name], I’m [Your Name], I help brands expand their social media presence and create impactful online experiences. What brings you here today?
    • Hey [Client’s Name], I’m [Your Name], I looked over the company information that you sent over and I’m very impressed by what you’re trying to achieve.  I’ve worked with many brands in the past and have helped them reach their goals. . What specific goals can I assist you with to help you succeed?

2. Icebreaker Questions:

  • Start the conversation on a friendly note. Ask a couple of light icebreaker questions to create a comfortable atmosphere. This could be related to their day, interests, or something you noticed about their business.

Example:

  • Before we dive into social strategies, tell me, have you experimented with any unique content on your social channels lately? Any particular posts that resonated well with your audience?
  • What’s been the highlight of your week? Discovering a new social trend, perhaps?
  • Any social media campaigns or accounts that have recently caught your eye?

3. Client Background:

Transition into discussing the client’s background. Ask about their business, industry, and any specific challenges they are currently facing. This sets the stage for understanding their needs in context.

Example:

  • To kick things off, could you share a bit about [Client’s Business] and what sets you apart in [Industry]? 
  • Your business intrigues me. How did [Client’s Business] come into existence, and what values drive your brand? This insight will help me align our social efforts with your brand identity.
  • What inspired the inception of [Client’s Business], and how do you envision its growth through social media?

4. Project Overview:

Invite the client to provide an overview of the project from their perspective. Encourage them to share the goals, scope, and desired outcomes. Take note of any specific expectations they have in mind.

Example:

  • Let’s talk about your social media vision. What specific goals do you have for your brand’s online presence, whether it’s increasing followers, driving engagement, or conversions?
  • What does success look like for you in terms of brand visibility and audience interaction?
  • I’m eager to understand more about your social aspirations. How do you envision your brand being perceived on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook?

5. Pain Points and Challenges:

Delve deeper into the client’s pain points and challenges. Ask open-ended questions to uncover the specific issues they are trying to address. Understanding their challenges helps you tailor your solutions more effectively.

Example:

  • Every brand faces unique challenges. Are there specific pain points or obstacles you’ve encountered with your current social media strategy that you’re looking to address?
  • What hurdles are you currently facing in terms of your online presence that you’d like assistance with?
  • Are there any specific challenges you’ve noticed in reaching your target audience through social media?

6. Goals and Objectives:

Explore the client’s goals and objectives for the project. What are they aiming to achieve? Understanding their desired outcomes allows you to align your services with their expectations.

Example:

  • Let’s shift focus to your goals. What outcomes are you aiming for through our social media collaboration? Is it increased brand awareness, community engagement, or perhaps driving website traffic?”
  • Can you share more about the specific objectives you’d like to achieve through our social media efforts?
  • Success means different things to different brands. What does success look like for you in terms of your social media presence?

7. Budget and Timeline:

Gently inquire about the client’s budget and timeline for the project. This information is crucial for both parties to ensure realistic expectations and a feasible collaboration.

Example:

  • What’s the range you have in mind for your social media management?
  • Timelines often dictate our approach. Are there specific deadlines or time frames you’d like us to consider for our social media collaboration?
  • Having a clear budget and timeline ensures we’re on the same page. Could you provide insights into your budget range and any time-sensitive aspects of your project?

8. Previous Experiences:

Ask if the client has had previous experiences with freelancers or similar projects. Understanding what has worked well for them in the past or any pain points from previous collaborations can guide your approach.

Example:

  • Learning from past experiences is valuable. Have you worked with social media managers before? What strategies have resonated well with your audience in the past?
  • Reflecting on previous collaborations can guide our approach. Are there specific aspects from past social media initiatives that you’d like to replicate or avoid?
  • Can you share any insights from working with social media managers previously and how that has influenced your approach?

9. Your Approach and Process:

Share a brief overview of your approach and process. Highlight key steps, milestones, and how you typically collaborate with clients. This helps set expectations and demonstrates your professionalism.

Example:

  • As we move forward, I’ll typically start with a thorough audit of your current social media presence. From there, we can discuss content creation, posting schedules, and engagement strategies. Does that align with your expectations?
  • In terms of my approach, I believe in a comprehensive strategy. I usually begin with an analysis of your current social presence before diving into tailored content creation. How does that sound to you?

10. Questions and Concerns:

Open the floor for any questions or concerns the client may have. Encourage them to share any reservations or specific aspects they’d like more clarification on.

Example:

  • Before we wrap up, do you have any specific questions or concerns about the social media management process? I want to ensure you feel confident in our collaboration.
  • Is there anything specific you’d like more clarification on, or any concerns you’d like to address before we move forward?
  • Are there any questions or concerns you’d like to discuss further, ensuring you have all the information you need for our social media collaboration?

11. Next Steps:

Summarize the key points discussed during the call and outline the next steps. This could include sending a detailed proposal, scheduling a follow-up meeting, or any specific actions agreed upon during the call.

Example:

  • Based on our discussion, I’ll craft a detailed proposal outlining our agreed-upon social media strategies. Would you prefer to receive that via email, or shall we schedule a follow-up call to go over it together?
  • I’ll get to work on a tailored social media proposal for [Client’s Business]. When would be a convenient time for you to review it and discuss any adjustments?
  • Excited to move forward, I’ll put together a comprehensive plan for [Client’s Business]. How soon would you like to reconvene to dive into the specifics of our social media strategy?”

12. Closing:

End the call on a positive note. Express your enthusiasm for the potential collaboration and thank the client for their time. Reiterate your commitment to delivering value and solving their challenges.

Example:

  • Thank you so much for sharing insights into [Client’s Business], [Client’s Name]. I’m genuinely excited about the prospect of bringing your brand to new heights on social media. I’ll be in touch soon with the proposal. Have a fantastic day!
  • It’s been fantastic getting to know more about [Client’s Business], [Client’s Name]. I’m eager to translate our discussion into an actionable social media strategy. I’ll reach out shortly with the detailed proposal. Take care.
  • Your vision for [Client’s Business] on social media is inspiring, [Client’s Name]. I’m thrilled about the possibilities, and I’ll be creating a proposal that aligns perfectly with your goals. Looking forward to our next steps. Until then, have a wonderful day!

Conclusion:

This blog covered everything from what a discovery call is to why it’s so important. With an easy-to-follow template and examples, you can make your client discovery even better than expected. Remember, a discovery call isn’t just an onboarding step—it’s your chance to crack the client deal. So, use these tips to make each call a big win for your freelancing journey. Good luck, and here’s to opening doors to more. 

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