What To Do When You Have a Difficult Client

Unfortunately, not every client you take on is going to be a walk in the park. It’s inevitable that sometimes, you’ll have a difficult client. 

Since your professional reputation is at stake, you need some strategies for dealing with a difficult client.

The challenge with clients like this is that usually, they’re overly demanding. They may also clash with your working style. You have to finish whatever work you’re doing with them, but there are ways to do it that will make it as painless as possible.

When dealing with a challenging client, choose your words carefully to avoid confrontation and escalation.

Listen well and acknowledge without apologizing. Take breaks whenever you need to or limit communications, but not in a way that feels like you’re ignoring them.

Emphasize that you’re working together toward a common goal. Discuss things in terms of the results you’re trying to get and make sure they understand you’re on the same team.

If they’re asking you to do more than you offer, set clear boundaries, remind them gently of the job’s terms and your business’s capabilities. 

Even though they may be driving you insane, try your best to find a solution that will make them happy. 

Try to find a quick solution to finish and send the clients away feeling satisfied. The best-case scenario is that they leave you happy, and you never have to work with them again.

Keep in mind throughout the encounter that you shouldn’t take it personally. The person is probably unhappy because of unrealistic expectations or their issues. 

When you’re stuck with a problematic client, chalk it up to a learning experience. In the end, try to figure out what wasn’t working so you can avoid it in the future.