You're facing a client resistant to new solutions. How can you persuade them to try something unconventional?
When you're up against a client's resistance, it's crucial to find the right approach to encourage openness. To navigate this challenge:
How have you successfully persuaded a hesitant client?
You're facing a client resistant to new solutions. How can you persuade them to try something unconventional?
When you're up against a client's resistance, it's crucial to find the right approach to encourage openness. To navigate this challenge:
How have you successfully persuaded a hesitant client?
-
Got a client who's hesitant about new solutions? It happens! Start by digging into their concerns—sometimes the pushback is just a need for more context or reassurance. Once you’ve got their perspective, try pitching the idea as a small, low-risk step forward instead of a big leap. Share quick success stories or examples that speak to their goals and show how others have benefited. And if they’re still unsure, suggest a mini pilot to test the waters. It’s all about building trust and showing them they’re in good hands!
-
First step is to understand the root cause of their hesitation. Is it based on previous negative experiences with similar projects or with other vendors? Thereon it's crucial to emphasize three key elements: 1. Usefulness and Efficiency: Highlight how the solution directly addresses the pain points, with potentially quick TAT or cost-effectiveness. 2. Multidimensional Impact: Demonstrate how the solution can resolve the issue from various angles. 3. Success Stories: Provide concrete examples of how similar clients have successfully implemented the solution, showcasing its proven track record. Propose a clear communication plan. Offer regular check-ins emphasizing that a consensus and joint effort toward a common goal will lead to success.
-
oActively listen to their concerns, and try to understand the root of their indecision. You can also consider their body language and tone. oCreate a safe space for them to share their doubts. oTry to find a middle ground that satisfies both parties. oBe adaptable to their needs and preferences, but also be clear about your boundaries. oMake sure they understand and agree to the consequences of any changes. oProvide a no-risk opportunity for them to experience the benefits. oYou can offer a bonus, free gifts, loyalty points, or referral awards. oUse facts and numbers to support your case. oShow how the changes have had a positive impact in the past. oStay available to answer questions and provide support during the transition.
-
I’d focus on understanding their concerns, then share success stories or data that show how the new solution could benefit them. I’d also offer a low-risk trial or pilot to ease them into it.
-
One approach to any social interaction, if you ask me, is just basic empathy. Trying to put yourself in the client’s shoes and really considering their goals by altering your perspective might help you elucidate a path to the connection you need to win them over. Regardless of what the business is, a client is coming to you because they want to work with you, and you’re responding to a client because you want to provide them with a good or a service that you really believe in; remembering that should always be the first step in trying to establish trust with a client or a business partner- but that’s just my two cents.
-
When facing a client resistant to new solutions, I’d approach it with empathy and logic. First, I’d understand their concerns—why they’re hesitant and what’s holding them back. Then, I’d build trust by showing them how the new solution addresses their pain points more effectively than their current method. To ease their worries, I’d highlight success stories of similar clients who benefited from the unconventional approach. Finally, I’d offer a small pilot or trial, so they can see the results firsthand without committing fully. Gradually, this can help them feel more comfortable taking the leap.
-
It is very critical point that needs to be tackled in a smart way ; this resistance is for sure due to a reason. So start by listening and analyzing to reach the cost / benefit outcome to both parties . It is all about WIN-WIN & to your surprise they might have valid points that will help you to amend your model to meet their expectations and your views. Get your team with their team for a brainstorming session with the above mentioned understanding so that you reach to the desired conclusion.
-
One thing I've found helpful when facing a client resistant to new solutions, is being able to visibly show the predicted outcome if those solutions are put in place as well as what will happen if no solution is implemented. Knowing what's at stake and what resources are available as well as risks and benefits allows the client to make a better educated decision about something unfamiliar to them. Knowledge is power and understanding, clarity and communication goes a long way.
-
Active listening is key here. Ensure your client's concerns have been heard. Don't be tempted to jump in.. just hear them out and then gently highlight the benefits of trying something new. Try to share some similar success stories, or offer a trial run, and emphasise how it’s a low-risk way to potentially solve their problems. It’s all about building trust and making them feel confident and supported throughout the creative process. Baby steps will go a long way.
Rate this article
More relevant reading
-
Investment BankingWhat are the best ways to build rapport with clients from different regions?
-
AftersalesWhat are the best ways to show commitment to your company's values?
-
Client RelationsWhat do you do if your client's decision-making is not influenced by logical reasoning?
-
Process AutomationHere's how you can handle a promotion conversation with your boss.