She is nerves... Please help!!!

[Tatiana]

She is nerves...
I am used to clients who could not wait till I start the job and they were excited in participation. Was I too spoiled by good clients?
My new client says she is nerves. After she approved my idea and my color sketch she spent probably a couple of months (sending many emails with questions to me) thinking if she wants my mural on canvas or directly on the wall. Eventually she decided to do it on the wall and we scheduled a start day. Oh, and she wants "little changes" to have more Florida look to a Mediterranean garden which originally was planned.
I did a computer photo of her wall incorporating my sketch in it and she loved it.
I do not complain, she is nice and highly compliments my talent and skills but probably having difficulties to make discussions and stick with them. I actually feel sorry for her. Can I, should tell her something to make her feel better? Any ideas? Please help!!!

[covergirlfaux]

This is a tough one. Because she constantly analyzes...not out of being controlling or a pain in the a for the sake of being a pain in the a. She just doesn't really know what she wants. And, unfortunately, sometimes, people like this are never completely satisfied because even after the piece is done, they have another idea that gets them thinking and confused. I'd make sure you do change orders every time she wants something changed, make her sign it and show her the cost. That usually gets people to focus because they see that they're spending money to calm their nerves and make up their minds.

[Sher]

I agree Shannon, and great advice about the change orders. It's almost like you can see them coming from a mile away.

Good luck, Tatiana!

[Pat]

I always try and set the tone. So if I come across relaxed I can usually get my customer to relax. We have clients like this as well and I usually say things like, "This is gonna be fun, it's gonna come out great." Get them excited but and casual about the situation.

I also agree with the change order. Maybe be careful though and say that it is a mural and little things are no big deal but to change the larger elements is to make it a different project. This might be a good way to justify it.

[Tatiana]

[slsparks]

"Let me do the worrying for you...please, I want you to enjoy this process." that's what I would say to her.

I haven't added your link yet T, but I will soon. I have been slammed and will be for the next 2 weeks. Sorry!



Sherry~

[Tatiana]

I like it Sherry, let's enjoy the process! I believe in good energy of positive thinking. I know we all have to paint sometimes in stressful or uncomfortable situations (too hot, too cold, too high... ) but when I paint I do not really think of it because I love painting so much. I will hope that my client will enjoy the process to.

PS Do not worry about the link, take care of your life and business first.

[Sher]

I like that, Sherry. That's a great suggestion and one that I will keep on hand!

[slsparks]

LOL...until they go too far... there's a limit to what I can take and then watch out...tee hee. But I always try to go off constructively and from the heart. If there has to be confrontation, hopefully one can plant a seed to help another on their journey towards "getting it". Hopefully I will treated the same.

Anger drains me too much. As soon as I turn it around in my head in a way that comes from love and tolerance, it diminishes the tension and stress. I mean, think of how difficult this woman's life is if she cannot allow herself to let go and feel joy? That thought instantly brings out a nurturing instinct in me rather than wanting to bop her on the head. *smile*


Sherry~

[Sher]

Little bunny foo-foo.

[Linda Marsteller]

So many decisions.....she is also afraid of making the WRONG decision.
Just wait until she asks a relative or neighbor THEIR opinion.
I call it death by committee (she is a committee of one!).