When you first set up a company, funds are tight. You
understandably feel the need to accept every project when your bank balance is
low, you are trying to build up a client base and a portfolio.
But do not give into temptation. There are times when you
have to turn down projects and clients. So when do you need to put your foot
down? Look at this checklist:
1.
When The Effort Is Cutting Into Your
Profit
Does the client's job requirements
cost you more in time and effort than the money you are going to make out it,
this is a sure sign that this is a loss-making project. You are well advised to
turn it down and concentrate on the more profitable ones instead.
2.
When The Project Goes Against Your
Business Vision And Mission
You may accept a project because
you are temporarily short of funds, but there are some projects which go
against your company’s mission. If you add them to your portfolio, they will
only make you come across as a confused company which doesn't know what it's
doing, and if you don't add them to your portfolio you will have nothing to
show for all the time and effort you spent on it.
3.
When Your Clients Are Demanding The
Impossible
You just can’t deliver a working
website to a client overnight unless you cut corners. Be upfront with your
client and say so. If they still want it done, you need to turn the project
down without a second thought. If you take it on, you will never be able to
deliver, and you'll risk your credibility.
4.
When The Project Is Taking Your Focus
Away From More Important Projects
Do you have other more profitable
or more valuable projects in the pipeline that you are unable to focus on? If
that’s the case then this client or project is simply not worth it.
5.
When You Think Some Business
Relationships Won't Work Out
Sometimes a business relationship
isn't worth the headache. Some clients are just so hard to please and so
unpleasant in general that going out of your way to complete their projects
will not result in a relationship that you can cultivate. It is best to dump
such clients and move on.
6.
When The Project Is Sucking Morale
Accepting the wrong projects can
slowly but surely kill your as well as your employees' morale. An obvious sign
is when you notice your employees feeling confused and overworked, and turnover
is high especially among employees who have been working on "that"
project.
You’re the best judge of whether or not a particular project
will be a good fit for your company. But if you do choose to turn it down, do
it in a way that helps you preserve your dignity and will leave a good
impression on your client. Remain tactful at all times - who knows your
prospective client may come up with another request that is right up your
alley.
