What was the reason for the comment? Could it be a call for a meeting to discuss the cause of making the comment? Barcelos says: “Explain reasons (not excuses) for saying the disparaging things about him. Just be honest. Most importantly, emphasize the business benefits of continuing the relationship (e.g., ‘We really want to continue helping your company XYZ.’). In the end, the goal is not to be best friends with this client but to maintain a healthy and prosperous professional relationship between your companies.”
Tips of the Trade: “Four Cures for Foot-in-Mouth Disease”
What was the reason for the comment? Could it be a call for a meeting to discuss the cause of making the comment? Barcelos says: “Explain reasons (not excuses) for saying the disparaging things about him. Just be honest. Most importantly, emphasize the business benefits of continuing the relationship (e.g., ‘We really want to continue helping your company XYZ.’). In the end, the goal is not to be best friends with this client but to maintain a healthy and prosperous professional relationship between your companies.”