How do you deal with an aggressive client?

[Big Jon]

Supposing you got a gig to work on a design for a client, and in the process of discussing with him, you find out that he's pretty much an aggressive type. He uses harsh tones when you ask for clarification on some things, even making use of derogatory words.
How do you deal with a client like that? Do you endure all that and work for him, or call off the deal if you've had enough?

 

[Kyle]

I've never had to deal with a client who is aggressive and it's something that I'm never going to entertain. The moment you start talking to me without any form of respect, I'm going to end every business discussion and move on.

 

[Big Jon]

I've never had to deal with a client who is aggressive and it's something that I'm never going to entertain. The moment you start talking to me without any form of respect, I'm going to end every business discussion and move on.

Are you sure about that? What if it is a contract that will bring life changing revenue for you? Surely you'd want to see through it, if anything, because of the money.

 

[Justin]

I would never work for a client who's aggressive. They are bound to be very insultive too which I don't take from any human being.

 

[Kennysplash]

One thing I appreciate about myself is the ability to manage tense situations. I know just what to say to curb the aggressiveness and we will both eventually laugh it off. The key is just to be patient and calm.

 

[Walter]

One thing I appreciate about myself is the ability to manage tense situations. I know just what to say to curb the aggressiveness and we will both eventually laugh it off. The key is just to be patient and calm.

Exactly! As long as you want to convince them to order for your services, you have to be calm and patient at the same time. Give them more reasons to trust in you to deliver and they will buy it.

 

[Maddox]

I would ask my client the question why he's being very aggressive especially if we have never worked before. If that can be explained, I will know how to tackle what's making him aggressive.

 

[Gary]

Supposing you got a gig to work on a design for a client, and in the process of discussing with him, you find out that he's pretty much an aggressive type. He uses harsh tones when you ask for clarification on some things, even making use of derogatory words.
How do you deal with a client like that? Do you endure all that and work for him, or call off the deal if you've had enough?

I've been in this job for a long time to know that there are some people I can never work with. Someone who is using abusive words when I'm trying to conclude a deal with him is never going to be my client.

 

[Axel]

Maintaining a good manner of approach is one way to dealing with some clients who are very aggressive. When after everything they don't want to reason and behave like a normal human being, I will walk away from the deal.

 

[Kennysplash]

I've been in this job for a long time to know that there are some people I can never work with. Someone who is using abusive words when I'm trying to conclude a deal with him is never going to be my client.

The mistake some designers make is thinking that they have to work with everyone that comes along. Once you see that they will be unnecessarily difficult then move.

 

[Larry]

I've been in this job for a long time to know that there are some people I can never work with. Someone who is using abusive words when I'm trying to conclude a deal with him is never going to be my client.

This is exactly the same approach I use with anybody that I'm working with. If you are not going to be respectful and reasonable when negotiating with me the way you talk, there is no need for us to work together.

 

[Gregory]

I deal with aggressive clients very easily by simply walking away. They are toxic human being as far as I'm concerned and I don't have time for messing with such energy.

 

[Ezra]

I will never waste too much energy on any potential client who can't be civil when talking to me. If it was an existing client whom I've worked with on several occasions, I might ask to know what's wrong with him but with a new client, it's a red flag.

 

[Kennysplash]

I deal with aggressive clients very easily by simply walking away. They are toxic human being as far as I'm concerned and I don't have time for messing with such energy.

This can be tricky, especially if you’ve not had any client for a long time. You would want to do your best not to lose him which might lead you to overlooking their questionable behavior.

 

[Brandon]

It depends on the nature of the client aggressiveness to me. When it's aggressiveness in a form of an insulting manner, I don't think I would be able to work with that kind of person.

 

[DesignerJack]

Be patient yet firm with them. It does wonders if they know that you will always maintain your stand and can walk away anytime.

 

[Ryder]

Be patient yet firm with them. It does wonders if they know that you will always maintain your stand and can walk away anytime.

It's going to be like 2 captains in one ship. I don't think it's ever going to work out with trying to handle them in this manner. It's either they give in or give out.

 

[Brandon]

It's going to be like 2 captains in one ship. I don't think it's ever going to work out with trying to handle them in this manner. It's either they give in or give out.

This is exactly the problem I have with working for any client who is aggressive especially when we are still in the negotiation process of any job I'm supposed to do. He's telling me that we can't work together as a red flag.

 

[Frank]

I would never work for a client who's aggressive. They are bound to be very insultive too which I don't take from any human being.

As long as they are going to make payment, there is no need not to handle them better. I don't see it as a big deal having such clients, but it is never easy since you will feel like you are walking on eggshells.

 

[Sara]

I've never work with an aggressive client but if eventually I come across one, trying my possible best to maintain tranquility but the client decides to continue with the aggressive manner coupled with rudeness, I will stop every work I had for them and call it quit. Aggressive people are always toxic and I can't deal with them.