Der Umgang mit einem Kunden, der ständig seine Pläne ändert. Sind Sie bereit, feste Grenzen zu setzen?

Here’s a practical approach to dealing with a client who constantly changes plans: 1. Set Expectations: Establish clear guidelines from the start. To minimize confusion, define the project's scope, timelines, and communication rules. 2. Document Changes: Keep a detailed record of all client requests. This ensures transparency and accountability.

Your time is valuable. Your client's time is valuable. Communicating that in your onboarding process is critical. I always let a client know that I will be respectful of their time as I expect the same of them. Plans change so the expectation is that any change in meeting time is to be communicated 24 hours in advance. When plans change more than twice we unpack why, exactly, the client is not prioritizing our meetings together. This is usually indicative of a bigger block/issue that we need to discuss.

I always ask the client why the meeting is being changed. 'Personal reasons' is a perfectly acceptable answer, but when a meeting time changes more than twice - even for personal reasons, I discuss that with a client. I communicate again that both my time and the time of the client is valuable. If a client continually changes dates/times, we address that head-on with a blunt conversation as to why time together is not being prioritized.

Working with demanding clients can be challenging if subconscious events are causing meetings to be pushed, missed, or ignored. You are well within your right as a coach to demand respect for your expertise and time. Enforce the boundaries that you laid out in your onboarding meeting. When expectations are set properly in the beginning, enforcing those rules is infinitely easier. It is OK to demand that your time be honored.

I always ask that a client provide a few preferred times for meetings. Allowing a client to provide times that are best suited for their calendar/lifestyle gets the process started properly. I try not to force someone into my schedule unless it's absolutely necessary. This allows an open conversation when a client repeatedly misses dates or times. I often ask "You had mentioned that this time was optimal for you - is there a better alternative time or day that would work better since you seem to be unable to keep to the current schedule?" This holds a firm but understanding line but still enforces boundaries of our relationship.

I make it a point to communicate successes during the entire journey with a client. Committing time in a personal calendar and sticking to those dates/times is an accomplishment. Along with progress and developments in the overarching goals of our time together, I take time to celebrate calendar commitments with clients. Taking the time to work on yourself and your future is admirable. Creating space for that to happen in an already busy schedule is a reason to review progress and celebrate those wins.

When working with clients who frequently change plans, setting firm boundaries is essential. Start by establishing clear expectations at the outset, explaining the importance of a structured plan and the impact of frequent changes. Emphasize that while flexibility is important, consistency is key to achieving their goals. Engage in dialogue when changes are proposed, discussing reasons and potential effects to reinforce the value of the original plan or adjust it collaboratively if needed. If changes become excessive, remind them of agreed-upon expectations, highlighting the importance of discipline and commitment. Offer alternative approaches that align with their goals, demonstrating flexibility while guiding them back on track.

Sometimes, changes are necessary. I recall a project where a client kept shifting the direction. Initially, it felt overwhelming, but I soon realized that adapting was crucial for the project's success.