Taking on too much work can strain our resources and hurt all of our projects.
Q: A client came to us with a project we bid over a year ago. We have other work now and I am not sure we should take on the project, but I hate to turn down work. What is the best way to handle this?
A: Communicate the situation with your client. Let them know you need to review things before you can agree to take on the project. Evaluate your ability to perform the project and do the right thing. That may mean saying no.
- Communicate
- Tell you client about your need to review
- Let them know you want to make sure you can serve them properly
- Give them a timeframe when you will get back to them – 1 to 2 days
- Evaluate your workload
- Do you have the necessary resources for the project
- Can you manage the cash flow
- Will you be able to perform at your best level
- Are there other ways to solve the problem
- Do the right thing
- Don’t make a poor decision here
- Communicate your findings with your client – they may be able to help solve them
- Don’t do a poor job
Key Questions:
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Do you have the right resources available?
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Can you manage the cash flow?
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Can they wait for you?
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Are there other alternatives?
Take-Action Items:
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Pause
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Communicate your concern to your client
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Review the situation carefully
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Do the right thing