Have you ever been criticized for failing to do something a client thinks is easy, but only because they have no idea how it works?
- “Why does it take so long to finalize these architectural plans? Just draw the building already.”
- “Why do I need to answer so many questions to make software? Can’t you code?”
- “Graphic design is just being creative with fancy fonts and colors. Why do they charge so much?”
or the classic (real example)_ “Why is it so hard to photograph a live pterodactyl? All I’m getting are drawings!”_**
Sometimes, clients don’t have the context to understand the enormity of what they are asking. Then what?**
Of course, you can run away, and nobody should fault you for that. But if you are willing
to experiment, there is an alternative:
1) Ask questions that they will struggle to answer with that mindset. Sowing doubt is allowed, as a wrong opinion that is strong is bound to get them in trouble
2) Use stories and analogies that demonstrate value to show that you do have leverage in a negotiation.
The bottom line is: that you cannot lose a client who is already lost. If their opinions are that far adrift, dealing with them would already be a big risk for you anyway.
By trying to engage them, you are doing what you can. If they persist, you lose nothing. If they can see the reason, you now have a potential client from whom nobody sane will try to outbid you.