How would you handle a client's unrealistic expectations affecting the problem-solving process?

First, listen carefully to what they need and want. We should acknowledge their goals and concerns, and show them we understand where they're coming from. This helps build trust and openness. We shouldn't agree to impossible demands, but we should show empathy and understanding. Once they feel heard, they're more likely to be receptive to our expertise and the limitations we might need to explain. We should work together to find a solution that works for everyone, and we should be honest about what's possible. By doing so, we can find a balance between meeting their needs and being realistic about what we can deliver.

El primer paso para manejar las expectativas poco realistas de un cliente es reconocer y entender sus necesidades. Escuchar activamente al cliente y mostrar empatía hacia sus preocupaciones y deseos es fundamental. Esto implica hacer preguntas abiertas para clarificar sus expectativas y los resultados que esperan. Al comprender completamente sus necesidades, puedes identificar las áreas donde sus expectativas pueden ser poco realistas y empezar a abordar estos puntos de manera constructiva. Reconocer sus necesidades también te ayuda a construir una relación de confianza y a demostrar que valoras sus objetivos y estás comprometido en trabajar para lograrlos dentro de los límites de lo posible.

Listen. In their shoes, they're right. So listen and write notes. Ask questions and clarify what they're saying. There should be no reason to respond with the "realistic" option right away because they might feel like you were never receptive and immediately against them. Ensure they feel heard and respected. Then when it's your time to speak on their unrealistic expectations, look back at your notes and accurately address on them whilst showing you care and want to help them anyway you can. After all, we wouldn't be speaking with a client if we didn't believe we could positively influence their company. Remember the "Why". You aren't here to argue, you're here to help. So be receptive and help wherever you can.

It is essential to be a thought partner with your clients. Thus, it is important to acknowledge their needs but also understand where they are coming from. Once you understand the basis of their requirements, try to map their ask with their requirements and cull out non-essential asks. Also, often the client doesn't realise how seemingly small (maybe even low importance) asks can make the solution very complex. Not their problem that they haven't realised, it is not their JD to know the intricacies of your offering. Then it is on you to make them understand the nuances of your offerings and collaboratively find simpler was to solve their underlying problems to begin with

It is important to communicate early on and share with the client reasonable targets and what can be achieved. Sharing with them: - Constraints - Initial hypothesis - Resources - Path you are planning to take In case the client has a different approach, you do hear them but you try to set boundaries for your neutral process as well

Set clear boundaries and expectations that you can deliver within the given time and resources. Make sure you put your point across clearly and carefully, what’s the best possible from your end

I agree, It is our onus to make sure that we educate our clients about the pros and cons of a decision and how it might affect them. But what is even more important is the way that we communicate this to them. While some might take it as an unsuitable gesture others would understand the ethics and values that we are working here with as individuals.

I would first listen attentively to understand their needs and concerns. Then, calmly explain the constraints and challenges, using data or examples to support my points. I would offer alternative solutions that align more closely with what's achievable, emphasising the benefits of these options. Throughout the process, maintain open communication, set clear boundaries, and work collaboratively to find a middle ground that satisfies both parties while keeping the project on track.