Consultation tips & FAQs for freelancers

Let’s review some helpful tips for the entire process of the paid consultations feature and the answers to some of FAQs for sellers.

Tips: Before your video Consultations

Before your consultation, make sure to:

1. Come prepared
   • Research and review the buyer’s business/background details they sent before the call
   • Go over the requirements form they filled out, link to their website if they sent it to you, etc.
     
     
2. Write down notes/points
   • Write down pointers or questions for the conversation in advance, so you won’t forget to cover any info needed to know or that you want to share
     
     
3. Set up your workspace
   • Choose a suitable place (e.g. your office, a corner in your living room, etc.)
     • Your background should look tidy, well-lit, and quiet
   • Have pen & paper or a notes app on your computer
     
     
4. Look good and professional
   • Look presentable and dress appropriately
     
     
5. Internet connection
   • Have a good internet connection to avoid any disruptions that can cause misunderstandings and frustration

Tips: During your video Consultations

During your Consultation, make sure to:

1. Be on time
   • Join a few minutes early to have enough time, in case you need to resolve any technical issues
   • Don’t keep your buyer waiting
     
     
2. Turn on your camera
   • Show your face to help them to connect with you
     Remember: The purpose of the video consultation is to give buyers a chance to get to know you better and put trust in you.
     
     

3. Be friendly and focused

   • Treat your buyer with kindness and respect

   • Be mindful of your choice of words

   • Speak clearly, and answer questions in a calm, professional manner
     
     

4. Listen to them

   • Maintain eye contact and pay attention to what your buyer is saying/asking

   • Be patient and respectful, and give them time to explain their project's needs
     
     

5. Be honest if you don’t know

   • If a question catches you off guard, don’t panic—tell them that you’ll check it, and get back to them
     Remember: It’s okay if you don't have all the answers at hand.

Tips: After your Video Consultations

After your Consultation, make sure to:

1. Send the summary
   • Write a clear and structured summary of the call
   • Add the next steps, helpful links/readings
   • Send it as soon as possible, after the call is over
     
     
2. Ask for feedback
   • Ask your buyers for feedback after the consultation call so that you can improve your services for future buyers

FAQs

1. Will consultations also be available on the Gig page?
   Yes, you can book a consultation directly on a freelancer's profile and Gig’s page. From the gig page, click “Contact me” to open up the drop down menu to book a consultation.
   
   
2. Do the consultations appear in the Marketplace search?
   Yes, each Gig listing will indicate that paid video consultations are available under the 'Service Offerings' filter during searches.
   
   
3. Can I set up 15, 45, or 90-minute consultations?
   Only 30 and 60-minute consultations are available at the moment.
   
   
4. Can I cancel or reschedule a consultation if something urgent comes up?
   Cancellation works just like any regular order—meaning, if they want to reschedule, you’ll need to cancel, and have the buyer order again.
   Note: Missing your consultation is the same as not delivering your order.
   
   
5. Do sellers have the ability to pre-approve a consultation meeting?
   No, it’s not possible at the moment. We recommend sellers make it very clear in the description what the buyer can expect in the consultation call in order to reduce cancellations.
   
   
6. Can I pause or deactivate this feature?
   Yes, you can decide which session length options (30 or 60 minutes) are active, as well as, deactivate both.
   
   
7. Are there any guidelines for the summary that the seller needs to send after the call?
   There are no specific guidelines, but we recommend you send a written summary tailored to your buyer’s project needs and expectations (e.g. what was discussed, the next steps, etc.).
   Learn more with Tips: After your Video Consultations.
   
   
8. Can I choose to offer consultations in specific languages?
   You can include which languages you offer your consultation calls in the description.
   
   
9. Are the calls recorded and monitored for safety?
   Yes, the calls are recorded and monitored by Fiverr and there is also a report button.
   Learn more about meeting safety tips with Video Calls.
   
   Learn more about the feature with Paid Consultations for sellers.