How to handle emotionally volatile customer?

Picture this: you're in the middle of a negotiation meeting, or you've just completed a delivery or a routine check-in. Suddenly, you're on the receiving end of a tirade, bombarded with statements i will pull the project or the best one I have heard so far file a case. This might seem like an isolated incident, but I've noticed it's a recurring pattern over the years, and many others have echoed this sentiment.

In India, particularly, there exists a kind of toxic customer-vendor dynamic. Sometimes vendors are treated poorly, almost like second-class citizens. It stems from a belief that paying someone gives you ownership over them.

So, how should you navigate these waters? After all, business is critical, relationships matter, and yet, your dignity is under fire.

Here are my thoughts:

Firstly, try not to take it personally – easier said than done, I know. Understand that the anger directed at you likely stems from another source, and you just happen to be the convenient outlet. By maintaining an objective viewpoint, you can better manage the situation.

In the heat of the moment, addressing their behavior directly might escalate things. Instead, let them cool down before highlighting that their conduct was unprofessional.

What if the situation persists? Well, remember YOLO (You Only Live Once). The world is brimming with business opportunities – don't feel tethered to a customer who fails to appreciate your worth.