Meeting with potential clients
The student will be able to effectively communicate and negotiate with potential clients, discussing project requirements, timelines, and deliverables in a professional manner.
Part 1
Warm-up
Answer the questions
What did we discuss in the last lesson?
Do you usually have meetings with clients? Are they online or offline (face-to-face)?
Part 2
Vocabulary
Read the word, its’ meaning, and the examples
Then make up your own sentences using the word.
Student can skip the words they already know.
buffer time
/ˈbʌfər taɪm/
Extra time added to a schedule to accommodate delays.
We included buffer time in the project plan.
Buffer time helps to handle unexpected delays.
(be) eager to get started
/ˈiːɡər tu ɡet ˈstɑːrtəd/
Very excited and ready to begin something.
The team is eager to get started on the new project.
We are eager to get started on this exciting journey.
deliverable
/dɪˈlɪv.ər.ə.bəl/
Items or results that must be completed and delivered as part of a project.
The deliverables include a report and a presentation.
We need to define the project deliverables.
Make up your own sentences using the words.
Part 3
Useful phrases
Teacher guides the student the useful phrases
Opening the meeting
- Thank you for meeting with us today.
- Thank you for the opportunity.
Gathering requirements
- Could you please tell me more about your requirements?
Discussing the project
- Let’s discuss the features you need.
- We can start with the design and prototyping.
Clarifying points
- Do you have any questions about the timeline?
- What are the key deliverables for this project?
- How do we ensure all the requirements are covered?
- Is there anything specific you want to add?
Closing the meeting
- We look forward to working with you.
Part 4
Dialogue Practice
Practice the conversation with teacher
The software engineer (SE) is meeting with the potential client (Client) to discuss a new software development project. The objective is to gather requirements, present a proposed timeline, and discuss the budget.
Client
Thank you for meeting with us today.
Thank you for the opportunity. Could you please tell me more about your requirements?
SE
Client
We need a new web application that integrates with our inventory system.
Great. We have experience with similar projects. Let’s discuss the features you need.
SE
Client
It should allow customers to place orders and check inventory in real-time.
Understood. We can start with the design and prototyping. Here is a proposed timeline.
(Shows document or screen)
SE
Client
This looks good. Do you have any flexibility in the timeline if we encounter delays?
Yes, we’ve included buffer time to handle any unexpected delays. Do you have any questions about the timeline?
SE
Client
Not at the moment. What are the key deliverables for this project?
The main deliverables will be the design mockups, a beta version, and the final application. We’ll also provide documentation and training materials.
SE
Client
That sounds comprehensive. How do we ensure all the requirements are covered?
We’ll have regular check-ins to gather feedback and make sure we’re meeting your needs. Is there anything specific you want to add?
SE
Client
No, that covers it. What are the next steps?
Next, we’ll finalize the project scope and start the design phase. Our project manager will handle the budget discussion with you. We’re eager to get started on this exciting project.
SE
Client
Perfect. Thank you for your time and detailed explanation.
Thank you. We look forward to working with you. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out.
SE
Client
Will do. Thanks again.
Part 5
Discussion
Let’s use the vocabulary you’ve learned during the lesson and talk about the following topics/questions freely!
Teacher helps student expand and correct the answers
What makes you eager to get started on a new project?
Can you describe a project where buffer time was crucial for its success?
Why is it important to clearly define project deliverables?
How do you prepare for a meeting with a client to discuss a new project?
What information do you usually gather before meeting with a client?
How do you ensure you understand the client’s requirements during the meeting?
Do you think it’s better to be serious or more relaxed during a meeting with a potential client? Why?
Review
Let’s review the lesson with teacher
3 new words
Useful phrases for the meeting with potential clients
Discuss things to consider while having a meeting and preparing for the meeting.
See you next lesson
Homework
There is no homework today
