How Consultants Can Successfully Work With Clients Remotely

Working remotely with clients offers incredible freedom—you can run your business from anywhere while saving time and travel. However, building trust and maintaining clear communication can be more challenging when you’re not meeting face-to-face regularly.

With the right methods, you can create even stronger client relationships remotely than you might in person. Here are four proven strategies to keep your projects running smoothly and your clients happy.

4 Ways to Ensure Successful Remote Collaborations

Start Strong With Proper Onboarding

Your first impression sets the tone for everything that follows. When you’re working remotely, that initial onboarding process becomes essential—it’s your chance to establish trust before any potential miscommunication can derail things.

Think of onboarding as your relationship foundation. Use this time to really get to know your client, not just their project needs. What are their pain points? How do they prefer to work? What does success look like to them?

During this process, make sure you cover the essentials: set clear expectations, walk through project milestones together, and outline exactly how you’ll stay in touch. Most importantly, involve your client in your thinking. If they feel heard and included from day one, you’re building the kind of partnership that can withstand any bumps along the way.

See: How to Onboard a New Client in 6 Steps

Create a Communication Rhythm That Works

Here’s where many remote relationships fall apart: inconsistent or unclear communication. The solution isn’t more meetings—it’s smarter communication planning.

Start by establishing a regular check-in schedule. A brief 10-minute weekly call or video chat can prevent weeks of confusion later. If you’re dealing with different time zones, try a weekly email update combined with a longer monthly conversation.

Before you dive into the work, have an honest conversation about communication styles. When are you typically available? How does your client prefer to receive updates? What’s their expected response time? Getting aligned on these basics upfront saves frustration down the road.

Pro tip: Phone or video calls often clear up confusion faster than long email chains. When something feels complicated, pick up the phone.

Discover: 8 Steps for Planning a Successful Kickoff Meeting

Set Clear Boundaries and Stick to Them

Deadlines aren’t suggestions—they’re project lifelines. When you’re working remotely, clear expectations become even more critical because you can’t just stop by someone’s office to check in.

Before starting any work, map out major deliverables, dates, and who’s responsible for what. Put this in your contract, not just an email. When both parties agree to specific milestones upfront, it’s much easier to address scope creep or missed deadlines professionally.

Remember: boundaries protect both you and your client. They help ensure projects stay on track and budgets remain intact.

Learn More: Scope of Work 101: Setting Your Project Up for Success

Leverage Technology (But Keep It Simple)

The right tools can make remote work feel almost effortless—but don’t overcomplicate things. Start with a few key platforms and get comfortable using them rather than juggling a dozen different apps.

Consider these tools and resources:

• Project management tools like Basecamp or Asana keep everyone aligned on tasks and timelines
• Cloud storage like Google Drive or Dropbox ensures nothing gets lost in email
• Video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams make face-to-face connection possible anywhere

The key is getting your client’s buy-in first. Before settling on your tech stack, make sure your client is comfortable with your choices. The fanciest tool in the world won’t help if your client won’t use it.

Learn More: MBO’s Client Relationships Guide

More Tools and Resources for Independent Professionals

Remote client relationships can be incredibly rewarding. By focusing on clear communication, setting strong boundaries, and using technology thoughtfully, you can build professional partnerships that last for years.

Remember: your clients chose to work with you for your expertise. When you combine that expertise with intentional relationship-building, distance becomes irrelevant.

If you’re looking to find new clients, MBO’s talent marketplace can help you discover opportunities tailored to your skills and expertise. You can explore job matches that align with your experience and professional goals. For more information, check out MBO’s website for the latest opportunities.