Tips for Trainers: Is There Ever a Good Time to Give Up on a Client?
With the many great client-trainer relationships out there, there is also a fair share of negative relationships. Like any other relationship, it is a matter of determining when to work harder and when to finally let go. Clients recognize this sometimes eventuality and dump their trainer far more often, but when is it okay for a trainer to reach the point of leaving a client? When do you draw the line? Here are other examples of when it is okay for a trainer to dump the client:
The Client is Harassing You
If a client is outright harassing you as a trainer or as a person, it is a very simple decision to drop them. You deserve to be able to train in a safe workspace just as much as your clients.
If you are dreading training a client who is filled with pessimism, negativity, and anger, drop them. As someone who is in the profession of making positive changes in the lives of others, having a client so negative can not only affect your mood on a day, but your relationship with other clients as well.
The Client Refuses to Train
Sure, many new clients are a little afraid to try new things – especially when a task or behavior is unfamiliar to them. But there are those clients that take this fear to the extreme. These clients are so afraid to try new things, they outright refuse to train. How are you supposed to help your client if they won’t let you help them in the way you are supposed to? If your client refuses to train and try new things despite your efforts, consider letting them go.
The Client is Not a Good Match
Sometimes personalities just don’t match. If you and your client have clashing personalities that causes stress, it is okay to relinquish them to another trainer. If a clients’ overall goal does not match yours or if their personality just meshes better with someone else, recommend them to another trainer.