The savvy scribe recognizes that the simple laws of supply and demand only scratch the surface when it comes to a successful freelance business.
He knows that the better he is able to connect, collaborate, and carry out the wishes of those whom he serves, the greater the likelihood of future projects, referrals, and continued profits.
But, it‘s not just about doing good work.
(If only it were that simple.)
In fact, many clients and customers can attest that they have severed business relationships with some very competent folks because there was a key ingredient missing in the mix.
In a word…it’s called chemistry. You need to click with your clients.
Whether it’s in the corporate arena, or the world of freelance---people like to work with people they like. Bottom line.
I’m not saying that you have to be passionate about each other.
But there does have to be mutual respect, an atmosphere of trust, a similar “language” being spoken, and a general meeting of the minds.
Though it doesn’t always happen, sometimes a client even becomes a friend. And that’s an added perk that’s more valuable than pay.
With this being said, here are four reasons you need to click with your clients.
1. Chemistry makes whatever the project less stressful. As someone who has passed up paying clients, and also someone whom clients have decided to pass by, nobody wants to operate in a business relationship that is full of tension, turmoil, discomfort, and trifling-ness, (Is that a word?) :-)
2. Good chemistry brings out the good in all parties involved. People who don’t feel as if they are constantly being “tested” typically perform better.
3. Good chemistry increases productivity, because there are fewer issues to resolve, and less time devoted to non-creative “agendas”.
4. Good chemistry makes your work experience more enjoyable and your projects ultimately more successful.
How do you feel about chemistry with clients? Do you think it’s important in the overall scheme of things?
Image Salvatore Vuono
Back when I was in the corporate world, I used to think that it would always hurt you in some way to be disliked, and always help you in some way to be liked, regardless of actual work performance.
ReplyDeleteAlthough I was not the best or the worst employee in my department, I came to believe that there were some senior members of my company who would request to work with me because they considered me pleasant to work with. And then there were other bosses whom I did not believe liked me as a person, so they'd send much less work my way.
So, yes, I do think chemistry with those whom you work is key, especially in the long run. Work that needs to be done and deadlines met can be frustrating enough without adding to the mix a quarrelsome or trifling co-worker, client, employer, etc.
To paraphrase the great Oprah, "We must take responsibility for the energy we bring into the room," and that includes the work room, real or virtual.
Love the social skills/psychology aspect of this post!
Janette,
ReplyDeleteThis is why I "love" to hear from you. Thank you for your thoughtful and detailed response.
I do agree with Oprah, however, relational chemistry is something that is cultivated by "both" or "all" parties involved.
Sometimes we have control over it; sometimes we don't.
I can't tell you how many times, for example, I've heard women say about someone else, "I don't know why, but I just don't like her."
True? :-)I greatly appreciate your feedback---and for starting us off today.
I do think it is important. My husband has been self employed for nearly thirty years; we've experienced this first hand with customers and vendors. My freelance writing has been the same way. It's not all about getting the money for a job; it's about giving and getting respect and having peace of mind too.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I think trifling-ness is a word. Maybe I'll use it in an upcoming post. We could start a new word trend. :)
Good post. Have a great week!
Karen, if you use the word trifling-ness in one of your posts, I will so use it in one of my posts, too. Lol.
ReplyDeleteTalk is cheap, ladies. :-)
ReplyDeleteI double dog dare both of you! lol
So very true ... 100% agree. You get much better results and client satisfaction increases automatically when you are your client click. It is definitely something we should be aware of and work toward. Great post.
ReplyDeleteHi Sibyl,
ReplyDeleteThanks for weighing in today. It's always a pleasure to hear from you. :-)
I wonder if "likeability" is a trait you are born with or something you can develop, much like a skill set. I guess the same question could be asked about charisma.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy “hanging-out” and working with people who are comfortable with who they are – warts and all.
Thought provoking post Jen.
-Andrea
Andrea,
ReplyDeleteGreat feedback! I'm thinking it's probably a combo of both factors. I agree, I dig peeps who are authentic as well. :-)
I share the same views. Liked your blog very much.
ReplyDeleteThanks very much, James. Pleasure to have you here.-)
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