Not every customer is a joy to work with. Some will test you. Some will frustrate you. Some will make you want to throw your phone across the room.
You cannot control who walks through your door. But you can control how you respond.
The Haggler
You know this person. What is your last price? Anything you can do for me? Come on, help me out.
Here is what most people miss: this is not personal. In Nigeria, bargaining is woven into the culture. They are not insulting your work. They just want to feel like they got a deal.
The wrong move: getting defensive.
The better move: give them a win that does not cost you your margins.
I completely understand wanting the best deal. With the quality of materials we use, I cannot come down on price—but I can throw in free delivery. Would that work for you?
The Time Waster
They ask fifty questions. They want videos. They want measurements. They want you to compare it to three other things. Then they vanish.
Early in the conversation, ask a qualifying question:
Just so I can help you best—is this for an event coming up? When are you looking to have it delivered?
If they say oh, I am just looking around—be polite, but redirect your energy.
The Rude One
Some people are just having a bad day. Some people are just... difficult.
There is an old saying: never wrestle with a pig. You both get dirty, and the pig enjoys it.
Kill them with kindness. Stay relentlessly, almost irritatingly, professional. If they cross a line—refund them politely, wish them well, and block.
Your peace of mind is an asset. Protect it.
