Got a weird request for a 'free sample' of my full project plan

A potential buyer at a networking event in Austin asked me to send my entire process doc 'to see if we vibe' before even discussing a rate. I told them my initial consult call is free but the plan itself is part of the paid service. Has anyone else had someone try to get your full methodology for free like that?

4 comments

4 Comments

jordan5111mo ago

Wow, that's a huge red flag right there. What kind of work do you do, if you don't mind me asking? Some fields seem to attract that "give me your secret sauce for free" mindset way more than others. Good on you for holding the line with the free consult call only.

kellyt261mo ago

I used to give away way too much in discovery calls. Like a full hour of strategy. Then a mentor told me I'd given away a $2000 plan for free. That changed my whole view.

kai_ramirez381mo ago

Started doing 30 minute discovery calls and only answer the first question they ask in detail... then pivot to talking about my process and what working together looks like. It keeps me from giving away the whole game plan while still showing I know my stuff. Took a few clients ghosting me after free strategy sessions to learn that lesson the hard way. Now if they push for more free advice I just say "that's exactly what we'd figure out if we work together.

river_thompson1mo ago

My old boss said the same thing about free consults. He called them "sample sales" where you give the product away before getting paid. It took me a few burned hours to finally set a firm time limit.