This is tricky. Certainly I won't pretend I find it easy to do. Meeting a new client means meeting someone you don't know. Their values & habits are new. Their previous experience is almost a mysterious adventure. So much is not yet revealed.
Companies project their image through their website. They also give a big impression down the phone. I'm getting ready to meet someone I have spoken to - once. Someone whose website gives many impressions. I'm doing my best to read the signs - but I know I'm not even scratching the surface.
A website tells a story... Many stories. I get an impression from what a website doesn't do. The images have been selected; they must mean something. But it's hard to know what they mean until you gather more information.
Tomorrow I'll visit the premises; I'll meet the owner; I'll meet some of the staff; I'll even see people at work. The website is a puzzle. I'm waiting for more experience before I jump to any conclusions about the quality of the business.
I think we live in a mistrustful world. Websites are opening bids in a game... It's what's behind the website that matters most. There is a lot at stake in the first meeting with a new business. Tricky yes, but also exciting. I'm certainly going to learn lots.
ps: Thanks to Jenny Downing, photographer
