The client

When it comes to building genuine relationships with clients, you need to play the long game. These simple but highly effective hacks will get you started.

If you talk to them for a bit, without judgment, they might open up and tell you what's happening or at least provide clues you can use to get the gist. If it's about the problem they've come to your company to solve, show the exactly how your company can help them. This will help your clients to feel seen and help you connect with them better. "I'm sorry you're angry" or "I'm sorry you feel that way" can sound condescending to some people. If it's something outside your control, offer them something you can control: a glass of water, words of encouragement, a minute to catch their breath, etc. Reflecting a client's needs back to them shows that you understand what they want and are on the same page. If you make them feel like they're not allowed to feel a certain way, they can come to resent you. If you feel you're stagnating, then the time has probably come to explore those options and see what new opportunities you can find." However, trying to steer or maneuver a client's feelings to a specific place can seem insensitive and unempathetic. It was found that when servers repeated a customer's order back to them before bringing it to the kitchen, they [earned nearly twice as much](https://www.nature.com/articles/news030630-8) in tips, on average, than when they didn't repeat it. When it comes down to it, your client wants most to know that you've heard and understood what they're saying to you. However, there are ways to kickstart the process and create a rapport far more quickly.