How do you communicate with Photography clients online?

1 Choose your platform

The first step to communicate with photography clients online is to choose a platform that suits your needs and preferences. There are many options available, such as email, phone, video call, text, chat, or social media. Each platform has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the purpose, tone, and urgency of your communication. For example, email is a good choice for formal and detailed messages, such as contracts, invoices, or proposals. Phone or video call is a good choice for personal and interactive conversations, such as consultations, feedback, or referrals. Text, chat, or social media is a good choice for quick and casual updates, such as confirmations, reminders, or questions.

2 Set your expectations

The second step to communicate with photography clients online is to set your expectations and boundaries from the start. You want to make sure that your clients know what to expect from you and what you expect from them. For example, you can inform them about your availability, response time, communication style, and preferred platform. You can also ask them about their preferences, needs, and goals. By setting your expectations, you can avoid misunderstandings, frustrations, and conflicts later on.

3 Be clear and concise

The third step to communicate with photography clients online is to be clear and concise in your messages. You want to avoid confusion, ambiguity, and misinterpretation, especially when dealing with important or sensitive information. For example, you can use simple and direct language, avoid jargon and slang, use bullet points and headings, and proofread your messages. You can also use visuals, such as screenshots, mockups, or samples, to illustrate your points. By being clear and concise, you can ensure that your clients understand your message and respond accordingly.

4 Be professional and polite

The fourth step to communicate with photography clients online is to be professional and polite in your tone and etiquette. You want to convey respect, trust, and confidence, as well as build rapport and relationship with your clients. For example, you can use formal or informal greetings and sign-offs, address your clients by their name or title, use positive and courteous words, and express gratitude and appreciation. You can also use emojis, gifs, or memes, but only if they are appropriate and relevant to your context and audience. By being professional and polite, you can make a good impression and create a positive atmosphere.

5 Be responsive and proactive

The fifth step to communicate with photography clients online is to be responsive and proactive in your follow-up and feedback. You want to show that you are attentive, reliable, and interested in your clients' satisfaction and success. For example, you can reply to your clients' messages promptly, acknowledge their requests or concerns, update them on your progress or status, and ask for their opinions or suggestions. You can also anticipate their needs or questions, offer solutions or alternatives, and suggest next steps or actions. By being responsive and proactive, you can keep your clients engaged and informed.

6 Be consistent and organized

The sixth step to communicate with photography clients online is to be consistent and organized in your system and structure. You want to make sure that your communication is easy to access, manage, and review, both for you and your clients. For example, you can use a consistent subject line, format, and signature for your emails, use a folder or label system to sort and store your messages, and use a calendar or reminder tool to schedule and track your communication. You can also use a project management or collaboration tool to share files, assign tasks, and monitor progress. By being consistent and organized, you can improve your efficiency and productivity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?