Ways to Handle Difficult Clients During a Negotiation
When you commence a transaction with potential clients, you hope that things will move in the right direction. However, you also consider the possibility that things will fall apart. Not all deals become successful. However, there are also instances when you face rude clients. While in the middle of the negotiation, you already want to back out. Here are a few tips in dealing with them.
Learn how to listen
When you enter the negotiating table, you should have an open mind. You should also expect potential clients to ask for a lower price. The discussion will go back and first until you arrive at an agreement. It’s a problem if you enter the conversation, and you won’t negotiate under any terms. The other party will most likely react negatively because of your attitude. Even if you don’t wish to lower the price, you should still listen. Give the potential client a chance to explain.
Maintain a positive attitude
Even if you already feel frustrated with the attitude of the other party, you should maintain a positive attitude. Being rude to you is a reflection of the other person’s character, and not yours. However, once you have a terrible reaction, it’s on you. Keep smiling and listening even if you already made up your mind. Be professional enough to continue the conversation until the end.
Stay calm
Negotiations are about exchange of ideas. The goal is to agree on something. It’s not a debate competition. It’s also not a battle of who looks the toughest in the room. Stay calm throughout the conversation and don’t let anything bother you. The other party wins if you allow the negativity to bother you. Lower your voice when the other party is already shouting. Going on a screaming match wouldn’t help.
Never take anything personally
Realize that the potential client displays a defensive attitude to give the business what it deserves. Don’t take anything personally. If you feel outraged, it’s also because of your passion for the company. Once the conversation is over, shake the negative emotions off and move on.
Don’t give them a reason to spread terrible things about you
When you walk inside the room, you’re not just representing yourself. You’re a brand ambassador. If you display a terrible attitude, you’re being the company down with you. Don’t give the other party a reason to think that way. If they spread lies, other people will defend you. They know that you were professional in all transactions. It doesn’t matter if you have to deal with big or small players. Treat them with respect.
Hopefully, you won’t meet clients with a terrible attitude. If you do, you already know what to do. If the deal falls, it’s okay. You have other opportunities to build partners. You offer quality products and services. It’s not your loss if the other party decided not to move forward and show disrespect during the process.
Photo Attribution:
1st and featured image from https://www.smallbizdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/147350154.jpg
2nd image from https://broadly.com/blog/examples-of-difficult-customers/
