How Freelancers Can Deal With Difficult Clients

No two clients are the same. Some are easy to work with while others are not. Dealing with a difficult client requires patience and some form of control on your emotions. Here are some things to consider when working for a difficult client.

Do not take it personally when the client rants.
Focus on the job at hand and think of how you can accomplish it. There are times when the client is upset and needs to vent out just like any normal person. More often than not, the client is frustrated with a situation and not necessarily with you.

Be clear about your skills beforehand.
If the client demands that you work beyond your means, be steadfast and remind them of your agreed job limitations. You cannot be forced to work on something that would compromise your integrity and reputation.

Be objective and do not let the situation affect your judgement.
Working for a difficult client will sometimes hinder your discernment, but don’t let the situation affect your decisions or cloud your common sense in reaching sensible solutions.

Understand that miscommunication can happen.
This especially applies if your client is from another country because there are nuances to a language that the native speaker has mastered that might be hard for a non-native speaker to comprehend. When you’re in doubt if you got the message right, always ask for clarification.

Life after work should not be taken for granted.
Clients who are hard to work with cause stress that eventually lead you to lose focus and affect your job. Stepping outside of your work place after your shift helps. It’s best if you can go to a nearby park or mall where you can sit for a moment to relax and empty your mind of negativity.

If the client is really getting out of hand, ask your self how much you needed the job and if it is still worth staying. It might be the right time to lessen the stress and move on to a healthier and more conducive working environment. Your skills will eventually be more valued by a client that is reasonable and appreciative of exceptional talent.

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Photo credit: ghazaleghazanfari

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