Say No to Free Discovery Calls: How to Get Paid for Your Time and Expertise
Learn how to avoid wasting time on free discovery calls and get paid for your expertise with these actionable tips and a B2B SaaS tool.
You dedicated an entire Saturday to a discovery call with a potential client. The call was scheduled a week ago, and you've been looking forward to it. But as the call starts, you realize the client is unprepared and doesn't know what they want. You've now invested 3 hours of your time, and the client is still unsure. This is a common pain point for many service professionals, and it's time to rethink the traditional discovery call model.
Why this keeps happening
The problem lies in the fact that many service professionals offer free discovery calls as a way to attract new clients. However, this approach can lead to a lack of commitment from clients, who may not be willing to pay for your expertise. Additionally, free discovery calls can be time-consuming and may not result in a paying client. To make matters worse, clients may not take the call seriously, as they're not invested in the outcome.
Real example
Sarah, a successful business coach, lost count of how many free discovery calls she's had with potential clients. Each call would last an hour or more, and she'd leave feeling hopeful that this was the one that would turn into a paying client. But more often than not, the client would disappear after the call, leaving Sarah to wonder what she could have done differently. The worst part was that Sarah was losing valuable time and energy on these calls, which could have been spent on more productive activities.
The habits that fix this permanently
These are the non-negotiables for getting paid reliably in your profession:
How to implement this step by step
Step 1: Set Clear Expectations
When scheduling a discovery call, set clear expectations with clients about what will be discussed and what they can expect to gain from the call. This can include sending a brief questionnaire or email that outlines the scope of the call. For example, you could send a message like: 'Before our call, I'd like you to have a list of 3-5 questions you'd like to discuss. This will help us make the most of our time together.' This approach shows that you're organized and professional, and sets the tone for a productive conversation.
Step 2: Offer a Free Consultation or Strategy Session
Instead of offering a traditional discovery call, consider offering a free consultation or strategy session. This can be a 30-minute to 1-hour call where you provide value to the client and help them understand how you can help them achieve their goals. This approach shows that you're willing to provide value upfront, without requiring a long-term commitment from the client.
Step 3: Use AI-Powered Contracts
Use Becflow's AI-powered contracts to establish a clear scope of work and payment terms. This can include outlining the services you'll provide, the timeline for completion, and the payment schedule. This approach shows that you're professional and detail-oriented, and helps to reduce the risk of misunderstandings or disputes.
Step 4: Create a Pricing Structure
Create a pricing structure that reflects the value you bring to clients. This can include offering package deals or tiered pricing, depending on the level of service you're providing. For example, you could offer a basic package for $500, a premium package for $1,000, and a deluxe package for $2,000. This approach shows that you're confident in your abilities and willing to charge accordingly.
Step 5: Automate Reminders and Follow-Ups
Use Becflow's workflow features to automate reminders and follow-ups. This can include sending automated invoices, payment reminders, and follow-up emails. This approach shows that you're organized and efficient, and helps to reduce the risk of missed payments or forgotten appointments.
The Becflow solution
Becflow offers a suite of tools designed to help service professionals like you get paid for their time and expertise. With Becflow, you can create AI-powered contracts, send invoices and track payments, and automate reminders and follow-ups. By implementing these tools, you can say no to free discovery calls and start getting paid for your expertise. Try Becflow today and take control of your finances!
Get paid faster, automatically
AI contracts, invoices with payment links, and automatic reminders. All in one place. Free for 7 days.
Start free trial