Today we want to talk about a common behavior we’ve seen in most clients we’ve had in the past. We say past because we have since learned these are types of people we do not want to work with. And we’re happier for it.
Quality over quantity is still sound advice.
Do Not Tolerate This Kind of Client
They are gas lighters and manipulators. For some reason the most common complaint they give is, “I haven’t gotten results in these many months. What are you guys doing for us?”
First of all, they perhaps don’t understand – even though you’ve provided proof – that you have access to seeing just how many returns on their investment they are getting each month.
All you have to ask is if they’ve been replying to their prospects that come into their inbox.
Whenever we’ve asked this question, they argue that they’re too busy to respond in time, they have turnover with their staff, which keeps them even busier, or they aren’t great at converting leads into clients.
In a sense, they are trying to argue their way to pay you less.
These are cheap individuals who believe that if they put a fire under you, you’ll work harder for less pay.
Recognize the Signs of Someone Cheap
- They ask you for a deal before work begins
- They ask you for a slow timeline until they can afford you
- Along those lines, they tell you they’ll pay you more if you can do…
- After so many explanations, agreement forms, and discussions, they still ask you what you’re doing for them
- They tell you they are getting no results after you’ve shown proof
- They speak to you almost every single week or more with pro-bono needs
Early signs are those that focus on how much it costs rather than the value of your service. Most especially, when they ask for discounts or delays. To talk about costs is essential, however, that shouldn’t take up the majority of the conversation. This isn’t a haggling situation. Value is value.
Remember, you have the right to interview them just as much as they interview you. Just because you’re on the call with a prospect, doesn’t mean you’re trying to sell them. It’s a two-way street. They need to equally sell themselves to you.
Your business must thrive, not strive. To thrive, you need to invest your time and patience into vetting out the quality individuals out there. They may be few, but it is worth your effort and time to take this steadily. Play the long-game and ensure you are providing services to people who respect you, value you, thank you, and trust you. We already know you’re offering them those traits, so it is only fair to receive them too. Sure, people have disagreements from time to time and no relationship is perfect. However, you are more likely to work well with that person in finding a solution when there is an equal amount of respect for one another.
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