I'm doing some cold outreach and had someone express interest in creating a site for their band. When potential clients reach out to me, I often find myself asking them some details like the type of site they need, if they have any materials ready, and if they have examples of sites they like. Most of the bands I work with end up paying between $200 and $400 for a clean, quick site that usually includes show dates and a contact form. But I'm wondering if this strategy could be improved. Any tips on how to effectively close these clients?
6 Answers
Skip the lengthy questions. If they have to think too hard, you've lost them. Ask one clear question to qualify them and show your expertise right away. For example, ask if they need a site for merchandise sales or just a landing page. Depending on their response, suggest a booking link for a quick call to seal the deal.
Focus on understanding their problems instead of selling features. Ask them what outcome they’re really looking for with the site, whether it's getting more bookings, establishing credibility, or something else. Once you've framed the website as the answer to their needs, then bring up the price.
Your approach isn’t bad, but you're jumping to pricing too quickly. Instead of pitching right away, try understanding their goals first. What do they want to achieve with the site? When you position it as a solution tailored to their needs, they won't view the price as just a number; it becomes part of the value for them.
For bands, I usually suggest discussing the scope of work during the first call. Topics could include downloadable music, booking info, selling tickets, and so on.
You might want to avoid hitting them with prices and a big list of questions right away—it tends to kill enthusiasm. Instead, send a brief video or a link to something similar you've done. Show them what their site could look like, and get them excited before discussing the $400 price point.
It's hard to pinpoint exactly what works best since it often depends on the person. Personally, I try to keep my initial messages short and sweet, nudging them to book a call instead. A lot of clients prefer discussing their needs in a conversation; it builds trust and lets them express themselves better. In the past, I used a similar template to yours, but clients sometimes felt overwhelmed and just disappeared.
Yeah, that's true! I think a simple Calendly link to book a call would definitely help. It cuts the overwhelm down.
Exactly, most bands just need a site for shows and links to streaming services. Merch sales usually aren't their focus.