“What are your objectives?” You can ask this question in so many ways… If you’re warming up the client through your newsletters, then you can throw a separate quiz after sending a few newsletters . Or if the client approaches you, then you can simply begin with “What are your objectives?” question. Always begin with objectives because they focus the client on results (not on costs) and give you the opportunity to pursue real needs (not wants). There is nothing easier, or more valuable, than starting the process by asking, “Can we begin with what you’d like to accomplish because of this project?”