When they're just not that into you

When the negotiations fail, although I wanted to work with them on their profile and associated project, they wouldn’t budge due to a different orientation to the agreement language.

I am told they have no budget but really want my services.

Or they sign the agreement and then later renege on fulfilling their side.

It happens. Business is always not easy to consummate. You earn it. The hard way, with effort.

Why? What causes impasses such as these?

Do people just not care? Isn’t the document written to elaborate on the oral agreement we made, all so we would not have an impasse down the line. Instead that came before we really got started.

It’s better this way. And actually a relief since it was not meant to be. And they showed it early.

I insist on clarity. I want the receiver’s experience to be better than what I expect for myself. The moment I capitulate my insistence on quality, I suffer stooping to the common denominator and tarnishing my brand.

Or perhaps they consider me just “another vendor.” Funny, I consider them my client. I give 51% or more.

There are going to be others who recognize my experience and insight in more logical and robust ways. I will offer it to them with no looking back to the others who did not value my offering.

I move forward.

The non-believers? They move sideways or backwards.

Have you had a similar situation? How did you separate yourself and maintain your dignity and honor? Tell us so we can all learn here.