4 types of clients (and how to work with them)

Tricky clients are a part of any job profile. They are generally the ones giving you business, they tend test you in different ways, and while some may be easier to handle, others may not. To make things easier (and for some light-hearted fun), we’ve decided to group these clients into four categories. So here are some tips on the different types of clients you may face and how to deal with them:

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The line crosser

This client thinks that because they are paying you, you are bound to do all that they please for the entire duration of your engagement. This might mean calls at odd hours of the night and day, expectation of immediate responses and other irrational requirements.

How to deal with them: The best way to handle this sort of client is to set boundaries at the get go. Ensure that you have clarified all your deliverables and your availability and that they cannot have you at their disposal as they please.

The spellchecker

This client picks on every single detail and is always unsatisfied with the work you produce. They look at the worst in every situation, and though they may be doing it in the best interests of their own business, they always tend to focus on the wrong things.

 How to deal with them: Make sure you keep them involved in every step of the project and try to address their concerns as and when they arise. In this way, you needn’t rework on the entire project once it is done. Focus on the greatest reward areas of the project, and don’t let smaller issues bother you or your client too much.

The mood swinger

As the name suggests, this client keeps swaying both ways. They may be excited with your work at one meeting and have doubts about the quality at the next. They may say one thing and do another, which makes it harder for you to perform and give them results.

How to deal with them: Have an open and honest conversation with your client to set expectations. Keep a record of what has been discussed and make sure you present it to them so they are aware of what is being done at all times.

The forgetful diplomats

When you’ve had a great meeting where you and your client have decided on a course of action, but still things just don’t seem to materialise, it probably means you have a forgetful client. They may be avoiding the work or just plain forgetful, and this doesn’t help you perform your job to the fullest.

How to deal with them: Mitigate this issue by sending your client regular reminders and schedule regular meetings with them to check on the progress. Keep them in the loop about the cost of delays and how you can work faster for better results.

The key to dealing with such clients is by having a good attitude and keeping open lines of communication to make sure that everyone is on the same page.