When You're Talking to a Client, There is Such a Thing as a Stupid Question

When it comes to querying a client, avoid any question which might lead the client to the conclusion that you don't know what you're doing. Avoid asking too many questions, which will lead your client to the same conclusion.

You are supposed to be the expert. If your line of questioning makes your client feel like you value their expertise over your own, you are going to have a problem. If not now, then when you send the bill and hear, "I did all the work; all you did was exactly what I told you to. Next time, I'll hire a temp worker and tell them what to do for a fraction of your price."

For example, if you are pool contractor, do not ask your customer how deep the water under the diving board should be. If you are in advertising, do not ask your customer what marketing message should go first in their brochure. Maybe it is legitimate to want your customer's opinion or confirmation, but the question should be phrased as such. Start out with your expert recommendation, then ask for your customer's reaction.

Choose your client questions wisely because you do have a quota. If you exceed your client's personal opinion on how many questions you should be asking, your client will once again draw the conclusion that you don't know what you are doing. To avoid this happening, take care to ensure you are gathering information from your client in the form of a conversation, not an interrogation. Make sure that for every question you ask, you answer one or make a statement to demonstrate your knowledge.