Inform clients promptly, explain the cause of delays clearly, and avoid technical jargon unless preferred. Share an updated timeline with new milestones and contingencies. Emphasize that quality, safety, and project goals remain priorities despite the delay. Explain the steps being taken to minimize impact, such as task resequencing or sourcing alternatives. Offer regular updates and remain available to address concerns and build trust.

When faced with construction delays, I focus on maintaining open communication and proactive problem-solving. As soon as a delay is identified, I inform clients immediately, providing a clear explanation of the cause and its potential impact on the project timeline. Alongside this, I present feasible solutions or revised schedules to demonstrate that the issue is being managed effectively. Throughout the process, I prioritize transparency by offering regular updates and being upfront about potential challenges, which helps manage expectations realistically while maintaining trust and collaboration.

Effective communication is the key here. Inform the client about the delays as soon as they arise, explaining the reasons and the potential impact on the timeline. Present alternative plans, such as sourcing materials from other suppliers, adjusting work sequences, or increasing labor resources to regain lost time. Establish a routine for progress updates, including clear milestones and new deadlines, so the client feels involved and reassured. Acknowledge the inconvenience caused and emphasize the minimizing delays is a top priority.

Delivering bad news about a delay should never be the first time your client considers whether they can rely on you. One strategy I've used to secure their trust is to carefully pick examples on the job where things did not go as planned, and then communicate my plan confidently. When I follow through - it proves my ability to tackle the unexpected. By utilizing this method, not overselling or making mountains out of molehills, I expose them to how many legitimate issues I am handling that they otherwise would have never known about. When unforeseen delays pop up, I clearly communicate my plan to get things back on track and my clients don't doubt for a second that we will still achieve our goals together. I've already won them over.