There are different kinds of people you will be working for and encountering as a project manager. It would be a big mistake to treat all your clients equally because one method does not fit all and would hinder the progress of your project.
Often, we wish to get the cool clients, the anything-goes client, the soft client and all the clients who will not give you a tough time. Obviously, managing such clients is not going to be as challenging as managing the difficult client.
How do you successfully work with a difficult client and achieve project success?
- Set clear timelines
Define project scope, timelines, and deliverables at the outset to avoid scope creep. Don’t wait to start the project before communicating important things such as these. They may have unrealistic expectations that you need to debunk before the project starts. Know that these clients will be on your necks to deliver within the agreed timelines. Ensure you give realistic timelines as possible.
2. Be honest in your communication
Provide regular updates and be honest about what is feasible within the project constraints. If a task is not done, communicate honestly, rather than trying to cover up.
3. Offer alternative solutions
When faced with unrealistic demands, suggest practical alternatives that can meet the client’s needs without compromising the project. This shows that you are interested in the project success as much as they are.
4. Control expectations
In most cases, it is the expectations that let things escalate when they are not met. Clearly manage the client’s expectations as the project is ongoing. If an initial expectation will be altered, quickly communicate, providing adequate reasons for the delay.
