Here's how you can smoothly convey deadline extensions to clients.

Communicating early and often is key. I have to make sure I have a pulse on the internal team to ensure we're on track. And then from an external perspective, things like context and impact are also important to convey. For example, why do we need XYZ (e.g. we can't start this until this)? Or how their decisions or delays in response will impact our schedule.

Communicate early! Never wait until the last minute Provide valid reasoning: Be transparent, and honest and use neutral phrases such as family emergency or equipment failure. Offer up solutions: Explain how you're committed to the project and what you're doing to meet the new deadline. Have a realistic time extension: Propose a specific date to extend the deadline. Document changes: Formally document any changes made. Maintain your professionalism: Be tactful and diplomatic in your communication. Apologize and express gratitude.

As an account manager, early alerts are crucial. Communicate clearly via email or calls, highlighting issues, impact, and proposed solutions. Use concise language, provide context, and suggest actions. Maintain regular updates to foster transparency and trust. Early alerts build proactive client relationships.

In my experience, the 1st outreach should be direct to your account contact, to explain the situation with clarity & transparency. Best case, this includes what happened to cause the delay, the plan to fix/address the issue and a commitment towards a new timeline "that will become more clear in the days ahead". Thereafter, a follow-up email to all needed parties.

A firm grasp on the details of why the extension is needed & how to move forward will provide confidence in your clients/prospects ability to see they have partnered with an organization that can problem solve, adapt, and prioritize when issues arise.

When communicating new deadlines as an account manager, clarity and transparency are key. Send a detailed email outlining the revised timeline, reasons for the change, and any implications for the client or project. Offer solutions or adjustments, and be open to discussing concerns or questions. Maintain a professional tone and emphasize collaboration to ensure mutual understanding and alignment moving forward.

As an account manager regular updates are essential for maintaining client satisfaction and project success. Schedule periodic check-ins via email or calls, summarizing project progress, milestones achieved, and any challenges faced. Highlight key metrics or results to demonstrate value. Be proactive in addressing concerns and seeking feedback to ensure alignment with client expectations. Clear and concise communication fosters trust and strengthens relationships, enhancing overall client satisfaction.

A change in timeline, scope, requirements, people involved, budget, or any other variable is more the rule than exception. So have a mindset that prepares you for these opportunities to show your abilities and stand apart!