Today’s question is:
“I have a client that works really well with me. Mainly because they waffle and dream a lot. And I have the patience and focus to help wrangle them back into the bigger picture.
They have a lot of big ideas and we spend most of our calls focusing back in. In the end, we always end up with a good solution that we’re all excited about. I think what they’re building is really important and critical, not only for their business growth, but for the community they serve at large. But I recommended them to a fellow creative professional and friend to do some graphic design work. I’m a copywriter and should definitely never be hired to do visual work. Hello, stick figures.
And it went all kinds of sideways. They ended up firing her in a way that neither of us, neither of us being my friend and I, can really figure out why. I had a call with them and it all seems very wishy-washy and they won’t be paying for the rest of her contract, which enrages me.
Should I be concerned about my own future with them as a client? If they’ve treated me awesomely, never late on payments, very focused, et cetera, is this a sign of what could happen? And do I continue to work with a client that treats other contractors so poorly? This situation seems to fly in the face of everything they hold true in terms of values and keeping promises.
Sincerely, a Midwesterner with fears of being flown over.”
Listen now:
In this episode, we dive into an elephant in the room type situation with a client, a copywriter, and a graphic designer. We talk about the importance of context, working with the client when the relationship has changed, something called the “what-if-ometer” and what to do when knowledge and skill alone can’t lead you to a decision.
In this episode:
- How to approach a difficult conversation with a client. 4:45
- Trusting your gut in business. 9:15
- A practical step you could take to help you make a tough decision. 12:10
Click here to download a transcript of this episode.
Where to find Amy:
- Website: amyposner.com
- YouTube Channel
Where to find Kirsty:
- Website: kirstyfanton.com