Written by: Vickie Sullivan | November 22, 2022
Your Project Was Just Cancelled. Now What?
With fears of recession looming large, many decision makers are freezing their budgets, pausing new hires, and putting projects with folks like us on hold. As a result, many of us are having “Hey, we have to cancel the project” conversations with clients. Tread carefully. How you respond during these discussions makes a difference and determines whether they delay the assignment or terminate it.
2 Reasons Why Companies Cancel Projects
Two factors cause a company to cancel a project. It’s either a logistical reason or a strategic one.
• Logistical. This is a structural change, such as someone got fired or the team cancelled the entire meeting. This kind of chaos puts everything in limbo.
Your next best move: Keep track of the situation and remain top of mind with the decision maker. Know that they may not have a timetable for rescheduling the project. Express empathy with your contact and promise to keep in touch. Your goal is to be the go-to option when things get back on track.
Listen: The Real Reason Why Projects Get Cancelled
• Strategic. Sometimes outside forces cause decision makers to change direction, causing them to cancel your project for another priority. You can salvage this situation when your relationship with the buyers trumps your reputation in a specific area.
Your next best move: Modify the role or scope of your project to fit the new reality. (Be aware: If buyers pigeonhole you as a coach, speaker, etc.—or your value is vague—this approach won’t work.)
These situations provide valuable information about how your client perceives the value of your work. Your response can influence this opinion and cement your relationship with them.
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