Adversarial Friends

The term 'Adversarial Friends' seems like an oxymoron.The reason I have termed it that way is because I have sometimes encountered clients who have started on an almost adversarial mood but eventually ended up as friends. What I have learnt from my experience of handling these type 'A' clients are

1. They do not have a clear idea about your products and services but they have a need that they feel your product and service can fulfill.
2. They have had a 'bad bite' from previous service providers and are more cautious.
3. They need more information, more education and more hand holding at the beginning stages of your client relationship.
4. They are the ones who call you in the middle of the night and spend more of your time having to answer their queries.
5. However, they can also be your best clients because they are coachable. They listen to your opinions and recommendations.
6. They seldom doubt your recommendations once you have earned their trust.
7. They can eventually be your best and loyal clients whom you can turn into raving fans for your business.

So treat all your 'A' type clients with patience and respect and in time, they will become your raving fans.

I welcome your feedback and comments on this post. Have you encounter similar situations before?