There is a famous saying,”Pick your battles” that is common to those that have been sent into a problem area over something trivial. Whether it has been at home, or in the workplace picking your battles is something we all need to look out for. In business it is even more important to pick your battles as the outcome of an argument could decrease business, degrade the name of your company, or worse send you into legal proceedings. So when things are going wrong with a client or contract what do you do?
First evaluate whether creating a scene will make a difference in the situation. Look to yourself first to see if you are causing the problem or the client. Next look into how much the client is worth to you and if it is worth hanging onto then it may be best to keep quiet. Once you know the worth of your client investigate the problem, is it operational, is it a personal situation.
If the client isn’t worth keeping then you may want to stop working with them, if they are worth a lot to the company then have another team member work with them, or learn how to handle the client’s demands and not take them personally. Sometimes raising your rates is the best way to deter a client. Remember the old saying, “Don’t take it personally, it’s just business.” We have all been in these situations and as a business owner your name is key so always protect that.
About the Author
Bruce Outridge is an illustrator and business consultant. For more information visit his website at www.bruceoutridgeproductions.com or www.outridge.ca
