Show-Vs-Tell: What are your experiences?

I normally get a mix of both.  If they don't ask, I offer.  On a whole, potential clients always want to see what I can do for them.  I see this process as an interview both ways.

It's important that they have a fit with me just as much as I fit with them.  A contractual arrangement just won't work if they don't like my development style or there isn't alignment in how we approach learning delivery.  I will (and have) turned work down if I feel there isn't that alignment.  As a contractor, it's about setting up for a win-win-win (me, the client and the learner) and that starts with being on the same page.  

It also helps once you've won the contract as the needs analysis over design has already started... what did you like, what to change etc.

That's awesome, Helen! I was particularly intrigued by your comment that you offer to build a sample if they don't ask for it. It's nice to be in a situation where you can select the work and clients that are a fit vs those who aren't.

It does not need to be a big sample (i.e.not a whole module...) .... just a few pages as a taster is usually enough.  The aim is to inspire them - engage them.  Seeing their brand will help them connect.  At a minimum I'll provide some sample pieces which are generic type topics.  I have a range which offer different presentation styles.  I find this helps as they are able to make choices over what they like and don't like - again - emotional connections and looking past cost etc to the future and what they want.  At this point it's often not so much about the content, rather how information can be presented.