Voice Actor

First, you need to GET clients. (That's another article, another time.) But when you DO get clients, there are some pretty simple things you can do to keep 'em, and keep 'em close.

Let me back up, though … and let me be clear. 

You are their partner, their supporter, and a steady presence in their time of need. 

You're in a relationship with your clients (in fact, that's likely how you got them, right?).  Sure, it's a business relationship, but still, it's human-to-human (H2H).

So, in a sense, it's almost embarrassing to have to suggest some things that normally considerate human beings would do for one another when they're in a relationship. But there's no harm in suggesting some tactful reminders for being magnanimous, unselfish, and obliging - in short: for being a good business partner.

Do some research. Ask pertinent questions. 

Get to know your client's business, how it runs, their goals, and their protocols. In time, you'll find out their workflow, and maybe you'll even get ahead of it enough to know when to speak up and offer help before they ask for it. 

Even if your timing is off, they'll appreciate that you're thinking of them.

Don't just meet their project deadlines, supersede them. 

take it up a notch, and surprise them with your timeliness. This is NOT just another job.  This is a job that defines your work ethic, your attentiveness to their needs, and your own self-worth. 

They'll remember that you bent over backwards to please.

This is a biggie. Your client is not clairvoyant. 

Let them know you got the assignment. Tell them you're working on it. Update your progress to them in an email. Estimate a delivery time.

Glitches or hiccups? Ask questions, show them you're involved, and you haven't forgotten them. 

Friends do this, right?

This is HUGE. If you miss the boat on the other three suggestions above, be sure to do this one. 

Call and ask if they're happy. Make sure the deal is done before saying "thank you" and invoicing.  Ask if there's anything else you can do. 

Send an email telling them how nice it was to work with them. 

Drop a Thank You letter in the mail with a Starbucks gift card. Send 'em a pen … a helpful promotional item … a thumb drive.  

What little it will cost you to do that will stick in their memory as something a friend would do. H2H, remember?