It should be an obvious tactic, but for most people it’s just an afterthought that occurs too late. I’ve recently started asking each of my clients for a letter of reference that I can use in my portfolio. All are willing and most are even eager to provide one, which is for me a sure sign that the client is happy. If ever one weren’t this would be a good way to uncover and address an issue… another reminder that a wrap-up meeting is a good idea at the end of a project. This is the natural time to review what’s been done, do any training necessary, and plan future steps. My favorite email response though, was this one:

Huzzah! Oh hell yes! Whatever u need! Gotta get back to work!!

Part of that is choosing your timing… like right after the first order arrives through the website, found through a Google search, within the first two weeks of launching the site. (Wish I could get that specific timing on every site launch!) This is clearly a happy client — and one who’s suddenly got some extra work through the new website.