As a professional, dealing with clients who have recently come into wealth and success can be challenging. While their success may be an impressive feat, their newfound wealth and success can also lead to arrogance, entitlement, and difficult behaviour. However, with the right approach and strategies, you can manage the situation effectively and build a positive working relationship with your client.

• Understand Their Perspective

To work effectively with a newly wealthy client, it’s essential to understand their perspective. They may have a different approach to business and may not be familiar with standard professional practices. However, it’s essential to remain respectful and show empathy while also setting clear expectations from the beginning.

• Define Clear Expectations

Clear communication from the outset is critical in managing the expectations of your clients. Be specific about the goals and timelines of the project and establish boundaries and guidelines for communication and behaviour. This will help to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

• Be Assertive

It’s important to be respectful, but also necessary to be assertive and firm when dealing with difficult clients. If the client is behaving unprofessionally, it’s essential to address the behaviour promptly and assertively. This should be done with professionalism and respect.

• Build a Rapport

Building a good rapport with the client will make it easier to work together effectively. Take the time to understand their business goals and objectives, and show a genuine interest in their brand. This will help to establish trust and make it easier to communicate and work together.

• Communicate Clearly and Regularly

Maintaining regular communication with the client will help to keep the project on track and avoid any misunderstandings. Be clear and concise in your communication, and ensure that all agreements and decisions are documented.

• Maintain Professionalism

It’s essential to maintain a professional demeanour at all times, regardless of the client’s behaviour. Avoid reacting emotionally to any inappropriate behaviour or comments, and stay focused on achieving the desired results for the project.

• Document Everything

Documenting all interactions with the client, including emails, phone calls, and meetings, is essential. This will help to have a record of any agreements or disagreements that may arise during the project.

• Focus on Results

Keep the focus on achieving the desired results for the project. Demonstrate how your work will help the client achieve their business goals and how it will add value to their brand. This will help them see the value in working with you and may help to reduce any negative behaviour.

• Know Your Worth

It’s essential to have a clear understanding of your worth and to be assertive when negotiating the terms of the project. Do not tolerate any behaviour that is disrespectful or unprofessional, and be willing to walk away from the project if necessary.

• Know When to Walk Away

Despite your best efforts, it may not be possible to work effectively with a difficult client. In such cases, it may be best to walk away from the project and avoid further conflict. While this can be a difficult decision to make, it’s essential to prioritise your well-being and the success of your business.

In conclusion, dealing with “nouveau riche” clients can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can manage the situation effectively. Understanding their perspective, setting clear expectations, being assertive, building a rapport, communicating clearly, maintaining professionalism, documenting everything, focusing on results, knowing your worth, and knowing when to walk away are all essential strategies for working with difficult clients. By implementing these strategies, you can build a positive working relationship with your clients, achieve successful project outcomes, and ensure the success of your business.