Kill Them With Kindness
Think of your kids when they are really annoying you. But then they smile at you and be really cute and it’s really difficult to stay angry at them.
So when your client is playing up like one of your kids, think of something that makes you happy and let that smile project on to your client.
Be Reasonable
Or perhaps your client has unrealistic expectations and that is causing them to be difficult. They may not understand the process of the work that you are doing. They may not understand the brief. Or is it the other way around. Are you understanding their wants and needs? Are you giving them unrealistic expectations? Are you the problem?
It’s important to be honest and realistic when you think your client is being difficult. We may not be the cause of their stress but it also may not be anything to do with their business. Do your best to understand what the client’s issue is before jumping to the conclusion that they are just difficult or rude.
Fire Them
It is your business and your life and you can pick and chose who you want to do business with. If someone is driving you mad then it is perfectly ok to ditch them. Give them whatever excuse you need to, but end the relationship. If someone does not value or appreciate the value you bring, make space for new wonderful clients. You do not have to deal with rude clients.
I have written before about the red flags of a bad client so please take a read of that to avoid them and not get yourself into a position of having to deal with a difficult client. It’s is your business so enjoy it!