Off-Limits Topics: What Not to Discuss With a Client

It’s great when you’re on the same wavelength as your clients and can chat about anything: family, unrequited love, the meaning of life, and so on. But with new clients it’s better to be careful and avoid the “off-limits” topics that may, in time, stop being off-limits.

So what’s better left unsaid with clients?

Income. Not everyone is ready to show their cards (or their wallet) to someone they’ve just met.

Harsh criticism of the previous artist’s work. You can point out what was done wrong (after all, she should know if her health was put at risk), but tactfully.

And right along with that, harsh criticism of other clients. Even just discussing them. Otherwise the client will think you’ll gossip about her the same way with someone else later.

Kids. Most of the time they’re only interesting to the people who have them.

Appearance. Don’t discuss or judge acquaintances, celebrities, or random people for their looks, weight, hair, or even tastes. This goes for conversations in general, not just with clients.

Politics. Who’s right, who’s to blame, when things were better; everyone has their own opinion here that you’re unlikely to change.

Religion. This one’s even more sensitive; any innocent joke or remark can offend a client, and she won’t come back.

Relationship status. Everyone’s family and relationship situation is different, so a question like that can sometimes upset someone.

Moralizing. Sharp opinions on any topic can be out of place. You may not enjoy working out, but the person in front of you might feel completely differently.

The best approach is to follow the client’s lead on what she brings up, and build the conversation from there. 😉