You will always find clients who want to be involved on every level of the contract, whether it is a remodel, renovation or a construction job. At times, they could even turn into inquisitive clients who keep visiting the construction location. Client management is a challenging job, so how do you go about it ?
Have an Open Communication Line
You need to set up a communication line through which your clients can contact you. For example, you either give out your office number, mobile number or email id. Often, your clients will have concerns that need to be addressed. These could be financial issues or changes to the contracted job. Either way, they should have a swift and an open communication line with you.
Be Patient
This can’t be stated more than enough and it can especially be annoying if your clients don’t really know what they want. You will find clients who are awesome to work with and those who are terrible to work with.
Be Honest and Never Cut Short your Explanation
A large complaint among customers of the construction industry is that the explanations given for queries or negative feedback are not good enough. Here are some pointers when you explain something to your client:
- Keep it simple and avoid jargon. Jargons are common terms that you’re accustomed to using, but your clients are not familiar with them, so avoid them.
- Show pictures and designs of your previous work to get a point across as there will always be clients who won’t be able to visualize your explanations.
- Be patient when giving out your explanation. It could be tempting to cut short your explanation if your client isn’t able to understand it, but it will come back to bite you later.
- Whenever you come across a problem, don’t down play it. Rather be honest about it. A client who suspects a lie won’t trust you. However, you earn their trust by being honest.
Have a Quick Document System
Often you have to transfer legal documents, blueprints, invoices, etc. to the client. While you are focused on the day-to-day activities on the construction floor, you should send them these documents swiftly. Handing over permits and invoices will help smoothen your own business processes.
One of the best ways to have a quick system is to get an electronic document management system (eDMS) like SOHODOX. SOHODOX has a very effective way of organizing your office files.
Be Respectful
Always have a respectful tone, even if your client angers you. You don’t have to back down from the disagreement, but you won’t get anywhere by being disrespectful. Most importantly, you may have more knowledge and experience at hand, but you can’t look down on your client.
Managing clients is not an easy task. They are just searching for a solution to a problem and you are the one to give it to them.
Just a Reminder…
SOHODOX is giving 25% discount on every license to anyone working in the construction industry.
The discount offer is on the table only till 15 November 2014!
Here’s what you can do to avail of the offer…
To avail the offer, send an email to [email protected] or click here
Learn More…
Visit Construction Document Management Software to learn more about SOHODOX for Construction.
Download the Free Trial…
If you have never used SOHODOX and are wondering if it will fit in your construction office, you can download and install it on a trial basis. The trial lasts for 15 days after which you have to buy the license with the 25% discount.
