Over the last nine years we’ve built a reputation for creating websites that are top-shelf both aesthetically and functionally. In addition to being very good at what we do, we also like having fun when the time and place are right. So when a client says yes, what is it that they’re buying from us?
- A website? That may be why they came to us and what the end goal is, but that’s not why they choose us. A lot of companies create great websites.
- A good time? Fun is a big part of it, who wants to deal with up-tight people all day. But even we know that there are better ways to spend money and have fun than hire us.
- Our methodology? They definitely want to know we have one, but the details aren’t as important to most clients as they are to us.
- Experience? Again, this is part of the reason but not what makes them say yes.
See, they don’t decide to hire us for the website they’ll get or the promise of a cold beer, cocktail or even because we’ve got hundreds of web projects in our portfolio.
So why do they hire us? Because we put them at easy about their project.
When most clients set out to select a web firm they are probably apprehensive at best. But somewhere along the project, some clients turn overbearing and feel they need to micro-manage. Most clients like to be in the front seat, but they prefer the shotgun position, not behind the wheel. So, what do you do with the client who insists on driving?
In my eyes, there are several ways to approach this issue.
- First, you could resign from the project and request the client find someone else to finish it (or recommend a company you don’t care for).
- Second, you could tactfully push back on the client and tell them who is in charge of the project and ask that they allow us to do our job.
- Third, you could take what the client says, give them what they want, and finish the project as quick as humanly possible so you can move on.
So which do you choose?
In my mind, the best thing to do is to finish the project as soon as you can (without jeopardizing the integrity and quality) and put the whole thing behind you. When it’s done you can always elect not to work with the client again. It may be difficult to handle it that way, as some dialogue will be needed in the future. However you always want to make sure you remain professional in all business situations regardless of whether or not the client is right or wrong. This will ensure that your reputation will always be positive and no bridges will be burned. At the end of the day, your responsibility is to make sure the client is happy. Stick with that principle and you’ll be in a good position.
