Written by
Nathan Ingram
on
June 3, 2022
Last Updated on June 3, 2022
If you work with clients, let’s face it—client problems are inevitable. But with a little preparation, you can prevent (or greatly minimize) potential miscommunications and conflict before it happens. In this post, we’ll cover the 9 most common client problems and how to prevent them.
The 9 Most Common Client Problems
If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one experiencing client problems, know you are not alone. Most freelancers face similar problems, and you’ll probably identify with every client problem on this list. Just remember—most of these issues simply arise out of human nature. We’re human and our clients are, too. This list is geared toward the work of freelance web developers and designers, but anyone working with clients will probably relate to these client problems.
1. Stalled on Content
At some point during a new project, you may find yourself waiting for some type of content. With web design projects especially, missing content can completely hold up a website launch.
Think of it this way: As a web designer, you’re an expert on the type of content a website needs, but you’ve probably struggled to write your own bio or articulate your service offerings for your website. Clients are no different—they can face even larger hurdles in writing or gathering website content.
Why Stalled Content Happens …
- The client is not a content expert, has no idea where to begin, and freezes up.
- The client is busy or avoids work.
How to Prevent Stalled Content …
- Produce a tool to extract content from the client. Make content production as easy as possible.
- Be proactive about asking questions; interview clients, record your notes.
- Consider subcontracting a freelance writer to complete content. Bundle the price into your total project cost.
- Start seeing content production as a new service you can offer clients to solve the stalled content problem.
2. The Angry Client
While you may do your best to avoid making clients unhappy, angry clients can happen. Angry clients usually happen for two reasons:
- You screwed something up.
- The client is being unreasonable.
This article was written by Nathan Ingram and originally published on WordPress News | iThemes Blog.