Have you ever developed really good rapport with a client? Everything seems fine: they're happy with your services, you laugh and share jokes from time to time, and you even keep up with major miles stones in their life. Then one day, out of nowhere: they stop booking with you. You reach out to check in, but get no response, it's evident they're not coming back, and you’re rattling your brain as to why.

You’re wondering what went wrong, you even come up with some pretty crazy conclusions. How do you make sense of it when a client ghosts you? Well, there are several ways to reframe what happened and turn it into a learning experience. Here are some tips to help when a client suddenly ghosts you.

Reflect on Your Experience

Taking a little time to reflect on what happened can be helpful.  In that time, you may be able to pinpoint where things went wrong. Did you unintentionally cross a line that in retrospect you realize may have been taken offensively? Reflection may offer perspective however, its not healthy to obsess over it. Of course, it’s only human to feel a certain way about the situation, but don’t become too wrapped up in it. There's not always going to be something that you did that caused your clients disappearing act. Remember to reflect, learn, and move on.

Remind Yourself These Are Professional Relationships

Even if you did get along well with the client and he or she felt like a friend, remember you are still running a business, and these are professional relationships. Don’t get lost in the comfort of the relationship. For example, just because your favorite client is very understanding that does not mean you should get into the habit of running late for their appointment, or even enjoying conversation with them so much that their hour service starts running into an 1hr ½.  Also remember that some professional client relationships will end simply because they may have achieved their goals and as a matter of their personal decision moved on.

Keep an Open Mind

One of the best things to do in this situation is to be open-minded about the problem. It's important not to jump to conclusions and to always have an open mind about what might have happened. Be willing to assume the best from everybody, which will put your mind at ease when these situations occur.

Do Some Client Outreach

The best thing you can do in these situations is to focus more on your business. Do some client outreach and focus on connecting with new customers. Even if one client decides to ghost you, it's not the end of the world. There are thousands—if not millions—of people that you can provide for even when one person walks away without notice.

Don't Let Imposter Syndrome Get You Down.

As a business owner, imposter syndrome can creep up on you and lead you to believe that you potentially weren't good enough, but the truth is, that is only your doubt talking. One person ghosting you is not the end of the world. It's not even an indication that you are not good at what you do. Ignore the doubt because you have made it this far, and you are skilled in what you do!

The thing about client ghosting is, it’s not really about the client walking away (I mean we’re big boys and girls and we expect to lose a client or two sometimes we are happy to see some go), but it’s the fact you will never really know why they left and that can really challenge your perception of how you see yourself and your relationships with your guests. Still, with an open mind, it can be a learning experience for you as a business professional and help you to grow. I hope these tips help!

Beautifully Yours,

Regina