What do you do if client accountability is jeopardizing meeting deadlines?

1 Set clear expectations

The first step is to set clear and realistic expectations with your client from the start. This means defining the scope, deliverables, timeline, budget, roles, and responsibilities of both parties. You should also establish how and when you will communicate, report, and provide feedback throughout the project. Make sure that your client understands and agrees to these terms and conditions, and document them in a written contract or agreement.

2 Monitor progress and performance

The second step is to monitor the progress and performance of your project and your client regularly. You should use tools and methods that help you track and measure the status, quality, and results of your project, such as project management software, dashboards, metrics, and milestones. You should also check in with your client frequently and update them on the project's achievements, challenges, and risks. You should also ask for their input, feedback, and approval when needed, and remind them of their obligations and deadlines.

3 Address issues and concerns

The third step is to address any issues or concerns that arise during the project as soon as possible. You should be proactive and transparent in identifying and resolving any problems that may affect your project's scope, quality, or timeline. You should also be respectful and empathetic in communicating with your client and understanding their perspective and needs. You should also be flexible and creative in finding solutions that satisfy both parties and keep the project moving forward.

4 Escalate and negotiate

The fourth step is to escalate and negotiate if your client is not meeting their accountability standards or expectations. You should be assertive and professional in expressing your concerns and expectations to your client and explaining how their actions or inactions are impacting your project's success. You should also be prepared to negotiate and compromise on some aspects of the project, such as scope, quality, or timeline, if necessary. However, you should also be firm and clear on your boundaries and limits, and protect your interests and reputation.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step is to learn and improve from your experience and feedback. You should evaluate and reflect on your project's performance and outcomes, and identify what went well and what could be improved. You should also solicit and provide feedback to your client, and acknowledge and appreciate their contribution and collaboration. You should also apply the lessons learned and best practices to your future projects and relationships with clients.

6 Celebrate and reward

The sixth step is to celebrate and reward yourself and your client for completing the project successfully and meeting the deadlines. You should express your gratitude and recognition to your client for their trust and partnership, and share the results and benefits of the project. You should also celebrate and reward yourself and your team for your hard work and achievements, and enjoy the satisfaction and pride of delivering a high-quality project on time.