The way you present yourself to clients can have as much to do with winning writing commissions as your skill level. Clients will never find out how good you are at writing if your initial presentation is offputting. So how can you put your best foot forward as a writer? Here are some tips.

Organize Your Website

Make it easy for clients to find the information they want on your site. Most clients want to see examples of work, rates, testimonials and contact details. Make sure these feature prominently on your site.

Be Responsive

When clients contact you, respond as soon as you can. Even if you are responding to say that you can’t speak right away, acknowledging the client makes them feel that you are on the case and that they can trust you.

Do Your Research

Even before you speak to or email a client, you can check them out online. Google is your best friend, as you can use it to see what the client’s business is about so that you can tailor your conversation and samples so that they meet the client’s needs.

Be Meticulous

Once you have got a commission, do what you promised. Meet the brief and deliver on time. If you are unsure about anything, ask questions early so you can still meet your deadline. Clients don’t mind answering questions if it improves the final product.

This article originally appeared in Writing Lab News.