How do you deal with unrealistic expectations or demands from a client?

When facing unrealistic expectations from a client, I address them by setting clear, achievable goals, and explaining the limitations. I offer alternative solutions that meet their needs while managing their expectations, ensuring alignment and satisfaction.

Document challenges, changes, and communication. Email strings and text messages provide a document log of conversations. Reserve phone calls for “off the record” discussions and negotiations.

Set expectations upfront. Understand their goals and express which expectations are realistic. Transparency builds trust, and working with aligned clients benefits your business

Yes, correct, you need to put mindsetup for the Contract as binding document and submitted offer as support document, Customer project execution team need to be clear about contract specifications and BOM, since sometimes purchasing team from customer side are different from project execution team, and proper handover was not done.

Put Boundaries, all Stakeholders need to follow c9ntract, and in case of required changes, change management process need to be followed.

Here Monitoring and Controlling phase of project should be followed, so you need to coach your team , for example during design phase once comments are issued on your design document, the comments need to be analysed and checked if it is within contact specifications and BOM

Transparency and communication are key. Timely communication is important because delays add a layer of cost and frustration that presents a barrier to collaboration.

Always discuss additional requirements with customer with rough costing available. Clearly indicate what is allowed in the contract and what is extra. Detail effects of churn and knock on effects on programme and end date. Don't be defensive. If he really wants something discuss ways to get it at least cost least schedule effects. He is not a construction expert but he is the guy with the money so work with him. Only change things when all is agreed.

The thought of negotiations as a win/win is incorrect. When there is conflict, it is rare that both sides fully realize their initial goal. What should be considered is a more median approach of better/better.

Look at the clients you enjoy working with and who ultimately contribute to your top and bottom lines. Learn their attributes. See how your employees interact with these clients. Conversely, look at your worst clients and learn their attributes. Seek out relationships and opportunities with your “A” list clients and minimize your work with the “B” list. Also, as a business, strive to be an “A” list customer for your own suppliers.

Address unrealistic expectations or demands from clients by fostering open dialogue, setting clear boundaries, and managing expectations through transparent communication. For instance, in renewable energy projects like offshore wind power, educate clients on technical constraints and regulatory requirements. In grid code compliance studies, clarify feasibility limitations and potential challenges. In manufacturing and battery energy storage systems, provide realistic timelines and cost estimates. Emphasize collaboration to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes while ensuring alignment with project goals and objectives.