Usually when opening a reading, I will ask the client to tell me about themselves and the current issue they're facing.
This isn't just for the sake of information. It allows people to open up energetically, and also allows them to feel safe enough to let me talk with their Spiritual Protectors. I belong to a religious tradition that believes that the Spiritual Protectors are primarily composed of Ancestors and Spirits tasked with protecting you from birth; thus, it's important that any Channeler have a connection with you and knowledge of your general situation before trying to speak with the Protectors, just for the sake of not causing discomfort, trauma, or offense
Then, once I connect on that level, I ask questions and convey the information as I get it. Sometimes the information seems random, but it's always been my experience that it connects to something important later.
After that, I will use some affirmations to ground both me and the client, and will wish them happy travels.