Rachel K. from Atlanta here. Been considering offering free sample audits to break into the market. Thinking I could analyze one month of Georgia Power bills for free to demonstrate my expertise. Has anyone tried this approach? Worried about giving away work but also know it's hard to prove value without showing results first.
Free sample audits as loss leaders - worth it?
Tony V. from Newark jumping in. I offered free audits when starting out three years ago. Did about 12 of them and got 4 paying clients from it. The key is setting clear boundaries - one month analysis only, basic errors identification, full audit requires paid engagement. Don't give away everything for free but show enough to prove competence. Found $6,800 for a warehouse on their PSE&G Schedule LPL rate during a free sample.
Harold F. from Topeka here. Free audits can work but be careful about setting expectations. Had one prospect expect a full multi-year analysis for free after I offered to review their current Evergy bills. Now I'm more specific - 'free 30-minute bill review' sounds less comprehensive than 'free audit.' Still landed two good clients this year with that approach, including a shopping center with $12,000 in billing corrections.