How to Build Trust With a New Client

Building trust with clients is essential for independent professionals of all kinds. When clients trust your judgment and believe in your work, it can lead to new projects and referrals. While trust takes time to develop, there are many steps you can take to strengthen these relationships along the way.

6 Steps to Starting Your Client Relationship Off Right

1. Host a Kick-Off Meeting

A kickoff meeting is usually the first time you’ll meet with project stakeholders for a focused, real-time conversation, whether it’s in person or online. It’s your chance to set the tone for how you’ll work together.

You’ll want to cover the basics like roles, responsibilities, and workflow. But just as importantly, it’s a time to introduce yourself and give your client a feel for how you work. It’s worth spending a little extra time planning to make sure things run smoothly. Build in space for introductions, leave room for questions, and follow up with a recap of key points after the meeting.

See: How to Plan an Effective Project Kickoff Meeting

2. Be Consistent and Clear in Your Communications

If you run your own business, you probably appreciate timely updates from your clients—and they expect the same from you. Early in the project, have a conversation about how you’ll communicate. Some clients might prefer a quick daily check-in, while others would rather get a weekly status update.

Don’t forget to clarify which tools you’ll use, too. Do they prefer video calls or quick phone chats? Would they rather get visuals or a simple bullet-point email? Getting aligned on expectations early is a smart step toward building trust.

Learn: How to Communicate Effectively with Clients

3. Exceed Expectations When You Can

We’re not saying you should promise more than you can deliver—but going the extra mile from time to time can really make an impression. Clients appreciate independent professionals who consistently deliver strong results, and small surprises can go a long way toward building your reputation.

Set realistic expectations throughout the project, but if you identify an opportunity to deliver ahead of schedule or offer added value, go for it.

Discover: 10 Ways Independent Consultants Can Wow Their Clients

4. Anticipate Your Client’s Needs

Top-performing independents don’t just focus on the task in front of them—they understand how the project fits into the bigger picture. Take time to get to know your client’s broader goals. The better you understand their business, the better positioned you are to support their future needs.

Ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and share your understanding of what they need. That kind of attention builds trust and shows your client that you’re invested in their success.

Check Out: Why Is Client Engagement So Important?

5. Be Available and Flexible

Time matters to both you and your client. Let them know when you’re available and how best to reach you. Be specific. Define your general working hours and give a couple of contact options depending on urgency. Maybe email is best for day-to-day updates, but in a true emergency, they can call or text.

Setting these expectations early builds trust and shows your client that you’re dependable, all without sacrificing your personal time.

Explore: How to Set Boundaries at Work When You’re Self-Employed

6. Ask for Feedback and Make Adjustments

Feedback is key to any great working relationship. Even when it’s not always easy to hear, it can help you grow. Asking for feedback—and adjusting when it makes sense—shows your client that you care about doing the best work possible.

Don’t wait until the end of the project to build feedback into your regular communication. Check in regularly, ask how things are going, and invite suggestions. Keeping that dialogue open makes it easier to course-correct and creates a stronger partnership overall.

Take the Next Step: Soft Skills in the Workplace: Top Skills and How to Improve Them

Where Can I Find Work As an Independent Contractor?

MBO is here to help you take the next step on your independent journey—with the tools, support, and expertise to keep you moving forward. If you’re looking for new opportunities, MBO’s talent marketplace connects you with projects that match your skills and professional goals. To explore available projects, check out our website.