I have a client who, for the most part, is an excellent customer.However, I’ve run into a problem. He has refused to pay a $7,500Bill, claiming that the services we provided had to be redone bySomeone else after we did the job. I have spent a great deal ofTime developing this relationship and I don’t want to end it. Onthe other hand, I don’t want to be looked on as a chump and gettaken. What should I do?
Ticked Off in Jersey
Dear Ticked Off,
This does not sound like a case of someone taking your servicesAnd then claiming they don’t have the money to pay you. It’sImportant to be able to recognize the difference between aGenuinely disputed bill and someone who is deliberately tryingTo rip you off. ThisAppears to be a quality client, the kind you want to keep andNurture. I’m guessing that your business relationship with this clientHas resulted in a lot more income for you than the $7500 inQuestion. Put your experience and business skills to work here andAsk yourself some questions:
Is the client a repeat customer? Have they paid on time in the past? How long have you had the client? Have they given you referrals? Can you see their side in this dispute? How much money is involved Is losing that amount worth saving the Relationship? Is the client likely to provide more work in the future? What might the client be worth to you in the future?
Find out what caused the misunderstanding. Maybe someoneMessed up on your end. Then clearly andCalmly communicate your position to the client. Be polite!Don’t push. Seek information, not confrontation. If noUnderstanding can be reached, forget about the money and don’tBring up the subject again. If you see the client as being a bigPart of your future you may want to forgive the debt withoutAny further inquiry on your part. Instead, send them a largeBox of candy and a pair of tickets to the theater.
Jim Finucan has been a top gun professional bill collector for Some 15 years. His book “Past Due A Bill Collecting Manual” Has helped many businesses double their debt collections using The professional techniques he has developed.
