How to get back the client after giving a big Project Quote to him?

Question

Hey...

Im a Project Manager at a Software and IT Farm. Since the US markets have been down,Im completely punked.

Earlier I used to quote the projects directly and the clients agreed and we did it ,but now the time has changed and whenever we quote , the client says,its too high, its out of my budget , we were quoted very less from other companies ,bla bla bla...

So,at that time,Im stuck..

Say for example,
I had a client yesterday,who wanted a Online Store with payment gateway for US processor.

I quoted him mere 3000$ and he started yelling that,its too high, etc etc etc..

But im very interested in working in his project as his requirements matches with other 3 of our customer and we would love to do it for him..

Then went offline and dint contact me today..
Since I want to do the project,I need him to contact me ,but I dont think,he will.

So in such cases,what shall I do ??
Its impossible to lessen the price to 2000$ as its simply vague cost,if we charge that..

So,how can convince him or try to talk with him again ??

So,whats the best negotiating method or convingcing method in this period of recession ??

Thanks...
Let me know...

Answer 1

Hi

I'm a Project Manager for a Digital Advertising agency. I find the best way to approach this is to breakdown the original estimate into components or modules:



Module A - costs $x

Module B - costs $y



Then take the approach with the client that they don't need to do everything straight away, you could build the core of the system, and the do a follow-up Phase 2 a month later integrating additional functionality so he's spreading out the cost over a period of time, rather than all at once.



For example you might offer a Template Style online store with 3rd Party payment gateway to start, and then Phase 2 might be Customised Designed online store with 3rd party gateway, and Phase 3 might be Customed designed store with integrated payment gateway.

Answer 2

If you in give in to him, you will regret it. Send an email stating that you have many clients to attend to and if he does not reply within 2 days, you will have to delay the project for 4 weeks. Maybe refer him to another designer but state emphatically that you are the best. Maybe state your recent clients. Maybe break down the cost structure. Set a payment plan but make sure you get a deposit upfront.

I know you want the client but giving in to a lower cost will only make you angry.

Answer 3

If a client won't sign a contract, you don't want them as a client.