Client Doesn't Click? Here Are 7 Elegant Ways To Refuse

Illustration of meeting clients (Freepik/pch.vektor)

JAKARTA - Communicating is the only way to convey ideas, concepts, or even goals. If you experience a mismatch with a client, you also need the right way of communicating so that there are no misunderstandings and appear elegant. Want to know how?

Measure the right time

Typically, someone will give you a deadline to consider, weigh, then decide. Even to refuse a client in an elegant manner also requires measuring the time precisely.

If you have entered the deadline, stick to the schedule. Avoid buying time because it will make clients wait and expect more. So, give a decision to reject it must also be on time.

Avoid arguments with lots of 'holes'

Decline means that you have considered the relevance or unsuitability of the client's offer. That is, try to map the way of presentation with perfect arguments. Avoid fragile and inconclusive arguments.

Describe the shortage of bids

If an offer doesn't match the project you are currently running, don't hesitate to decline it. Identify and explain the shortcomings of the client's offer. For example, not fitting into the project mission or considering a more effective and realistic bid.

Two-way dialogue

To appear thoughtful and open-minded, try to build a two-way dialogue. After communicating rejection, give the client the opportunity to express plans or criticism and input on the project you are running.

Express with empathy

As a manager or manager of a program, you have a way of keeping good connections. One of them is by expressing empathy. Give a little attention to the client so as not to be discouraged or disappointed by your refusal.

Illustration of meeting clients (Freepik/yanalya)

Choose words that don't disappoint

This is related to the method and choice of words, if you refuse a client's request try not to make him fall down with a bad choice of words. Stay professional and explain related offers from clients only.

Avoid disclosing company secrets

Why does it require planning and careful consideration? This is why you need to keep company secrets and keep them confidential. That means to take any plans that need to be conveyed and not conveyed to the client.

To reduce the risk of negativity, meeting clients needs to be in a professional manner. Even though you are empathetic, it needs to be limited to the extent how you give attention to the client. This was done in order to stay grounded in professional ethics but not to disappoint the client.