Friday, December 5, 2008

Fantastic Friday: Overcoming Difficult Clients

My husband and I have been running our custom furniture business together for over 10 years. We have shipped furniture to over four thousand happy customers all over the U.S. and even a few other countries, as well.

Every once in a while, a client comes along that for whatever reason, throws a monkey wrench in the works. Luckily, I can say this has only happened a handful of times in the past 10 years. However, it is hard not to take it personal.

The thing is, we know we do a great job and make a fine quality product. We also know that no matter we do, these difficult clients will never be happy because they are miserable in their own lives.

Each situation is different and there is no magic cure all for overcoming difficult clients. The only thing you can do is to post your terms and conditions on your website, make the best product you know how to make and stand behind your terms and your product. Open up the machine and yank that monkey wrench out and then move on.

It also helps to keep a file of letters from satisfied clients that you can pull out and read to lift your spirits! Post your testimonials to your website and be proud of a job well done!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Well put Kandas. You never know what is going on in someones life that may effect their decision. In your case, it's a bigger issue than most of us. The time, workmanship that is put into your product is one that every customer should understand before they order and consider to a great extent when they decide to return or refuse something.

Testimonials DO mean alot! I always look at mine when I need a boost...and in the words of Sally Field, say to myself "they like me, they really like me!"