To regain control of the conversation with a client who ignores your communication preferences: 1- Address the Issue Directly by Politely explain how specific communication methods help streamline collaboration and ensure efficiency. 2- Set Clear Expectations by Reiterate preferred channels, response times, and availability at the outset of discussions. 3- Adapt When Necessary byFlexibly incorporate their preferences while gently guiding them toward mutual convenience. 4- Use Documentation by Follow up conversations with written summaries to maintain clarity and accountability. 5- Offer Solutions by Propose tools (e.g., project management apps) that balance preferences and improve communication flow.

Back when I was in corporate, I had this one client who just wouldn’t stick to email, no matter how many times I asked. They’d call at random hours, send important requests on WhatsApp, and completely ignore the fact that we needed things documented properly. It was getting messy. So, I switched things up. Every time they called, I kept it short and followed up with an email saying, "As we discussed on the call, here’s the next step..." Eventually, I started politely pushing back: "Happy to help! Just send me an email so we can track everything properly." At first, they resisted, but when they saw that nothing was ‘official’ unless it was on email, they started playing along.

To regain control, establish clear boundaries and reiterate the agreed communication preferences. Use a polite but firm tone, like, "I noticed our communication channels have varied recently. To ensure efficiency, let’s stick to [preferred method]." If they persist, adapt strategically — meet them halfway by addressing their preference briefly, then redirect to yours: "Thanks for your input via email. I’ll respond fully in our scheduled call for clarity." Consistency is key. Keep documentation as a backup and escalate tactfully if needed. Assertiveness ensures you’re heard, but flexibility shows respect — balance both to steer the conversation effectively.

To regain control of the conversation, you need to identify and address any misunderstandings about yourself. Find out any issues in your communication or incorrect information that may have caused the other person to ignore you. Understand what they want and how they prefer to solve the matter. Arrange a meeting to clarify the communication process and offer value-added solutions that align with their purpose. When their purpose is fulfilled, they will start engaging with you positively.

The premise suggests a repetitive behavior or pattern. Therefore, before offering suggestions to a client who deliberately disregards something previously agreed upon, I would address the issue during a meeting to understand their reasoning. From there, I would determine the best course of action. Ideally, common sense would prevail, and the matter would be clarified, ensuring smooth communication through the most effective channels for both parties. I would also establish agreements regarding contact hours and implement AI-powered autoresponders for non-critical requests or asynchronous inquiries. All of this would be clearly communicated to the client in advance.