It’s sad but true… some of your clients will not display the most pleasant behaviors or attitudes. At some point in time, you’re bound to meet up on a difficult client. Your business and professional reputation are at stake so you need some strategies for dealing with difficult clients. That is, if you want to succeed in the massage therapy business.
The challenge with clients like this is that usually, they’re overly demanding. They may also simply clash with your working style. You have to finish whatever work you’re doing with them, but there are ways to do it that will make it as painless as possible.
When dealing with a tough client, choose your words carefully to avoid confrontation and escalation. Listen well and acknowledge without apologizing. Take breaks whenever you need to or limit communications, but not in a way that feels like you’re ignoring them.
Emphasize that you’re working together toward a common goal. Discuss things in terms of the results you’re trying to get and make sure they understand you’re on the same team. Even though they may be driving you insane, try your best to find a solution that will make them happy. Try to find a solution that is quick so you can finish and send them away feeling satisfied.
If your client is asking you to do more than you offer, set clear boundaries and remind them gently of the terms of the job and/or your business’s capabilities. The best-case scenario is that they leave you satisfied, and you never have to work with them again.
Keep in mind throughout the encounter that you shouldn’t take it personally. The person is probably unhappy because of unrealistic expectations or their own issues.
When you’re stuck with a difficult client, chalk it up to a learning experience. At the end, try to figure out what wasn’t working so you can avoid it in the future.
Do you want to learn more about how to attract new clients specifically for your message therapy business? Check out my course, which teaches you the A to Z of client acquisition and helps you achieve your business goals.
To your success,
~Steve
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