When you look at client cultures, there will be a spectrum. It is vitally important to know you will see a bit of each type: the good, bad, and fucking ugly.

When you look at client cultures, there will be a spectrum. It is vitally important to know you will see a bit of each type: the good, bad, and fucking ugly. Learn to deal with them all. There are some that you are better off breaking ties with: clients who will tie up your resources, wasting too much time and energy. As to the troublemakers and jerks: 1) To the extent you can, accommdate. 2) Limit contact to the people who can work with them with the least friction. 3) A quality product is the result of process, not something conjured up instantly and perfectly. Work and refine the pricess and make sure the customer understands it. 4) Keep a policy to neither abuse nor take abuse. Reasonable, constructive criticism is one thing; attacking just to enjoy inflicting pain is unacceptable. If they want to piss on something, direct them to the nearest outdoor fire hydrant. 5) If your product and development process is sound, stand your ground. Assert that "business is the persuit of the possible." If the customer wants magic, buy'em tickets to Las Vegas and GTFO business. 6) Increase your customer base so that you are proportionately less exposed to problenatic customers. 7) Train your staff in "people skills" for de-escalating conflict and staying focused on getting the work done.