One of the most challenging parts of being a web developer is working with difficult clients. You obviously can’t allow some issues make you become angry with a client or colleague.
If you can turn your client into a Dream Client then you won’t have to worry about potential issues which could escalate into anger on both sides. I like this article on “Turning All Clients into Dream Clients“ by Shay Howe on Smashing Magazine which offers some good suggestions for managing your clients.
- Communication is the most important element. Some hand-holding is required and an extra email or two or a phone call can make a world of difference. Keep them in the loop with regular communication.
- Use the tools you have. Manage your work through programs like Basecamp or Trello. Maintain a calendar with a timeline of events, due dates, tasks you or the client need to perform, project updates and billing hours.
- Help them decide what they need. They have an idea, but you need to educate them and get a solid foundation of what they need in a web design. When a client makes a Segway with a new idea follow thru but be sure you are billing for any additional time that wasn’t not contracted.
- Don’t play the guessing game, it will surely lead to burn out. Avoid it at all costs.
- Client high expectations and a shoe string budget won’t help anyone. Understand the risk of clients that struggle to pay on time. Always have a strong contract and decent deposit before starting. Be open and honest about payment, always be pleasant and remind them of upcoming invoices.
On a side note to add a little stress relief in your work environment and also maybe spark some creativity you might give this a try:
Using Lego’s to de-stress and initiate creativity.
Julie J Nichols 