5 QUESTIONS WE ASK NEW CLIENTS
There are two things I did well as a journalist — I took incredible notes and asked interesting questions. For the sake of a good conversation, and of course, a great story, I endeavored to ask what could not be answered just by scouring the internet.
Learning to ask the right questions has been a benefit in many ways as a website designer and a [former] communications consultant. It has allowed me to develop impactful stories on behalf of nonprofit organizations and small businesses, reaffirm their position with existing customers, and reach new supporters. Storytelling has always been the foundation for creating a digital space to form meaningful connections in communities.
Thoughtful questions are a critical component in RB Collaborative’s website design onboarding process. Our detailed questionnaire is designed to give us a better understanding of your business/organization, target audience, goals, systems, and more. Your answers helps us craft the blueprint for a website that will resonate with your audience, communicate your story, and strengthens your brand identity.
These are our five favorite questions to ask new clients:
What do you love most about what you do? The answer to this question gives us incredible insight into who you are as a business owner or leader of your organization. We love learning what drives you, where your passion stems from, the intricacies of your role, and how you got here. We want to hear your personal story, your connection to where you are now, and your vision for the future. No detail is too small.
What do you absolutely do better than your competition? Time to brag! Why do your customers or supporters choose you over your competition? What makes you stand out? You can share your accolades, testimonials, and great press coverage reaffirming your place in the market.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of your main competition? Time to be humble. Small businesses and nonprofits are often competing for the same customers and donors. It is good for us to know who your competition is, what you think makes them stand out, and where you see they may have room for improvement. Is there anything about their website that you like or don’t like? What is missing, and how can we fill that void on your own website?
What is the job of your website? If someone were to take only one action on your website, what should it be? Do you want to sell products or services? Are you looking to drive attendance to events? How about getting donations? Your website plays a critical role in your business, and it’s important to understand what its purpose is aside from aesthetics [which are important, too].
What do you like/dislike about your current website? We’ve come across clients who are sometimes embarrassed by their current website, especially if they’re pretty old. Rather than shame our clients [it’s unnecessarily mean], we remind them that when their website was built, many features may have been the industry standard at the time. So, in addition to what they dislike, we ask clients what they do like. Perhaps it’s the orientation of photos and copy, branding, or even the navigation. Not every element needs to be reinvented, but it is good to clarify what is working and what isn’t.
An in-depth understanding of our clients is essential to our website design process. We’ll work with you hands-on to craft, define, and refine messaging that intrigues, inspires, and builds loyalty.
We’re ready to tell your story. Are you?
— RB
