Different types of customers

In the years we’ve worked with clients, I’ve found two types stand out: 1) the “dance for me” client and 2) the “let’s roll up our sleeves” client.

Dance for me. This client firmly wants you to know that you work for them. They feel their job is primarily to judge your work. If it is successful, they will take great credit because they chose you. It the project falls short, they will lay the blame squarely on you. This client is not a bad person; their product may be excellent, but they draw a clear line between you and them.

Let’s roll up our sleeves. This client is appreciative that you are working with them. They want to make sure everything is done to ensure success, including them playing an active role. If there is success, they share it. If something falls short, they will take more than their share of accountability for it.

Sadly, the Dance for me client will lose out on one thing that the Let’s roll up our sleeves client gets—heart and soul. Sometimes that’s the difference between success and failure. 

Barry LaBov

LABOV Marketing Communications and Training

www.labov.com