When you first contact an astrologer, get an explanation of the typical session content, type of services available, the time required for a session, costs, and methods of acceptable payment.  Some astrologers offer full consultations including natal, transits, progressions, solar arcs, and predictive information in a single session while others may require a separate session for the natal, etc.  It's important to clarify this early on to avoid misunderstandings.  Most clients are more comfortable with a fixed fee for the session rather than an hourly fee for a session of undetermined length.  Some astrologers accept personal checks and/or credit cards while others prefer cash payment.

Ask if the astrologer allows or provides an audio tape of the session.  Most astrologers don’t mind if you tape—but some may ask that you bring your own recorder and/or your own blank tape.  Having a taped record of the session tremendously enhances its value, as it allows you to  review the tape whenever you want—and you may discover information that may have been missed during the actual session.

Expect to pay a fair price for the services you want to receive.  Don't expect to get a complete session for $25, but also don't pay beyond what you feel comfortable with.  Keep in mind that the potential benefits of a thorough session with a qualified astrologer can help to smooth out some of life's rough spots, reduce the likelihood of  missed opportunities, and make you feel more focused and directed.  As one prominent astrologer, Haloli Richter succinctly put it, "It's not like buying tires".

Don't assume that astrology is "just a hobby" for the astrologer and that it's not right for them to charge for their talents.  It requires years of study and continued hard work to maintain a high level of proficiency.  (If you truly can't afford the services, inquire as to whether there may be qualified, serious students in the area that might be willing to do some basic work at a reduced price in order to gain experience). 

When making the appointment, let the astrologer know (ideally he/she will ask) what is prompting you to schedule a session at this time.  You don't have to be overly specific, but verbalize your reasons before making the appointment.  This allows the astrologer to focus adequate time on the areas of the most importance to you. 

Spend some time confirming your birth information before the appointment.  Often this can be found on the birth certificate or another record such as a birth announcement.  If the time isn't correct, both the astrologer's time and your money haven't been efficiently utilized.   If you don't know your birth time, check out Finding Birth Times on this Web site for suggestions of how to research the time.    If you still can't determine your birth time, many astrologers offer a service called “rectification” (usually for an additional fee) to help determine the time.  Most astrologers prepare well in advance of the client's arrival, adding emphasis to the importance of an accurate birth time being communicated when the appointment is scheduled.

Insist on a clean, private, and secure place to meet.  Whether an astrologer works from his or her home, an outside office, or another location (bookstore, etc.) you should be comfortable in the setting.  You're paying good money and shouldn't have to deal with any distractions or conditions that make you feel uncomfortable or compromise your privacy.

Expect at least a general overview of your natal chart—including basic tendencies, talents, needs, and how to balance your strengths and challenges—explained to you in common, everyday language.  If you don't have an astrology background it can be quite intimidating or confusing to hear something like "Well, your Saturn's in the 7th House in Capricorn so of course...."  Insist on being told—at a practical level—what the measurements or observations mean instead of struggling to sift through an unintelligible grocery list of astrological psychobabble.

If you are interested in learning more about the technical mechanics of astrology, you may want to inquire as to whether the astrologer offers classes, workshops, or individual tutoring services.
 

Expect honest, direct, yet tactful communication.  I firmly believe that people can sense if they're not being dealt with honestly.  This is not to say that the astrologer should sugar coat anything or avoid cautioning you when appropriate.  But conversely, you shouldn't feel as though you've been beaten up when the session ends.  Even highly technically skilled astrologers need to possess substantial interpersonal communication skills.  The potential negative impact of poorly presented information is considerable and inexcusable.  Your astrologer should be able to help you prepare, strategize, and suggest possible solutions rather than just identify your problems and send you on your way.  

Expect the astrologer to have a business license and be accredited or certified as an astrologer.  Although there is no central licensing or accrediting agency for astrologers there are several reliable organizations and programs that issue credentials certifying competence as an astrologer.

Write down specific questions that you would like addressed.  It’s all too easy to forget something during a session if you haven't written it down.  Ideally, let the astrologer know the nature of the questions before the session begins so he/she knows how to allocate your time together.

Finally, but very importantly, you should expect absolute confidentiality.  This is your information.  If the astrologer provides an audio tape for you, it is prudent to review its content  privately before sharing the tape with others.