Listen before proposing solutions
A new client relationship starts with understanding priorities, constraints and previous attempts to solve the problem. Different stakeholders may describe the challenge differently. Those differences are useful inputs to explore before agreeing a solution.
Agree how to work together
Document the scope, points of contact and approval process. Clarify how information will be shared and which decisions need specialist input. A short working agreement helps prevent confusion about responsibilities when the work becomes busy.
Choose a useful first milestone
Start with a deliverable that supports a practical decision, such as a validated problem statement or prioritised action list. Review it together and adjust the next phase using feedback. This article describes an onboarding approach rather than a specific client announcement.