The time-worn saying, “the customer is always right,” has become even more valid in today’s economic climate, when we should all go the extra mile in our business interactions. After many years in a service industry, I still find it stunning how frequently people forget that old adage.
Consultants and service professionals who become too demanding will lose clients if they present a problem with a forceful, in-your-face attitude. One must refrain from becoming overly critical of the client’s activity or work product. Consultants and service professionals must keep in mind that their requirements are but a fraction of the work that the client has to accomplish. They must be sensitive to the pressures that the client may be facing and act appropriately.
Prudent business practice and honesty sometimes require all of us to say “no.” But, again, there is a way to say it.
The service professional should remind a client about deadlines for contracts or submissions. However, it is the client’s prerogative to meet those deadlines or let them lapse. The service professional must abide by the client’s decision.
Since we all serve other people in one way or another, I appreciate the frustration in overcoming obstacles needed to perform a job. But we all must submit to authority and remember the customer or client is always King.
