Experience, intuition, or a gut feeling should tell you to avoid taking on a client if you know that they will be more time and trouble than they are worth. There are signs to look for when contemplating a potential client no matter what the projected revenue stream.
Unrealistic goals from the very first meeting
Many of these clients have an attitude that if you can’t deliver, they will find someone who can! The hold-it-over your head strategy may lead you to feel like you have to have a magic wand during each call with the client.
The need for special attention
Don’t be fooled by clients that demand discounts on services because they were burned in the past with a similar company. Don’t set up a pattern of special treatment because if you do, the client won’t appreciate the value of your services.
You don’t agree with their business plan
There is a chance that the campaign may end on a sour note if the client still does not reach sales or customers even if the marketing efforts were fulfilled on your end. You need to be careful when choosing a client because they may be selling a product that no one wants, is very difficult to track sales, or the web site is entirely a mess.
Don’t waste time and energy
Ask their budget, their URL, and what they want to accomplish. Avoid spilling all the beans to the potential customer if you suspect a freeloader for unpaid education. If the potential client also tends to waste a lot of time in the sales process, they are most likely going to do the same to the Account Management team. Time is money = make a good decision on the forefront before sending the client over to your workers!
