When your business is based on working with customers, it is important to establish a relationship with them. Obviously, this relationship must benefit both parties. But what do you do when conflicts arise? That kind of conflict that you can't solve, no matter how hard you try.
Are you breaking up with the client or trying to solve them?
Here are some signs that it's time to give up the idea of "the customer is always right" and say your goodbyes.
He doesn't want to sign a contract
Most clients understand that contracts are important for the smooth running of business and that they must be signed before work begins. However, there are people who refuse to sign a contract, even if you have explained that it is necessary.
The lack of a contract creates the risk of many unpleasant situations and the vehement refusal to sign it is a clear sign that this client must be left to the delight of the competition.
Asks for more than you agreed on
It all starts with a few minor changes to what you offer. After a while, you find that you make important changes every time and invest too much effort in this client's project, compared to the money you receive. Leave this client and make room for a suitable one.
He's wasting your time
He asks you to have his project done by today’s evening. Then he has a micro-emergency that takes you out of lunch. He calls you late in the evening to talk about your tasks and you find yourself working during the night. The lack of respect for your personal time should make you rethink and determine if the remuneration you receive justifies this.
He pays too little
The remuneration you receive from this client is lower than what you receive from other clients. Most of the time, any discussion where you try to increase the price ends with his refusal and your resignation.
He pays late
Many customers may be late with their payments, and most of them have excuses. However, when failure to pay on time becomes a habit and is no longer an exception, wish all the best to the customer and move on.
He doesn't pay at all
Not paying at all for what you received seems illogical. Still, it happens. You had an agreement, you fulfilled your obligations, you trusted the client and… Surprise! He does not pay. If this is not a sign that you need to break up, then you have either decided to do charity or you have a very good heart.
Of course, it is imperative to create and maintain good relationships with everyone when doing business. But, every step of the collaboration shows that things are not going the way you want, the continuation of this will do nothing but harm your business.
You can avoid many of the problems listed above by scanning and identifying the type of customer that came to you and adapting your communication strategy to its specifics.
