How to Manage Federal Grant Client Expectations
As a case manager working with clients who receive federal workforce grant dollars, it can be challenging to balance expectations. It’s important to encourage them toward greatness yet help them understand that greatness is often a result of a process of steps.
Often, clients will think they can skip many steps along the way. They may think they can get the perfect job or the perfect learning opportunity all at once. They also may presume they’ll be eligible for more than enough federal funding to cover whatever expenses they want and may think it’s easy — when you know better than most that it’s usually not.
To create a smooth and successful transition for the people you work with, you have to manage client expectations starting at the first meeting. The better prepared you are for every step of the way, the more likely your client will be to not only meet but exceed their expectations for the future of their careers.
Tips for Managing Client Expectations
Clients often fall into one of two categories: They either have very high, almost unrealistic expectations or very low expectations. The reality of the process, of course, is somewhere in between. Here are some tips to help them set their compass toward achievable goals.
Create a Timeline
Even if a client is reasonable and understanding about the appropriate kinds and levels of jobs they may be placed in, they may have unrealistic expectations regarding the timeline of events. Start by talking with them about how long everything takes.
You may even want to discuss the time it takes to apply and receive federal workforce funding dollars. Talk about learning opportunities, such as online certifications and training through approved academic institutions like MedCerts. Browse options to see how long the training lasts. Have them schedule the steps in a planner.
Discuss Past Struggles
If they come to the table with disappointment from the past, ensure your initial meetings include a clear understanding of their common challenges. For example, let’s say your client previously struggled with finding childcare. The more you know about what stopped them from achieving their goals in the past, the more prepared you can be to help them now.
Schedule Communication
Never assume that clients are on board with appropriate expectations, especially when it comes to education and job placement. They may have never had the opportunity to talk about workforce expectations or methods for academic success. Be patient and ask a lot of questions, especially during the first meetings.
Then, schedule time for communication. Encourage them to be responsible for completing necessary paperwork and assignments and give them realistic deadlines. Set up the next meeting at the end of the first.
Be Ready to Customize the Plan
Problems occur — case managers know this more than anyone! — so it’s important to be flexible. Share this attitude with your clients, too. Let them know that the process can be dynamic. You don’t have to throw in the towel just because of a setback. Tell them that you can both adjust along the way as they find success.
Stay Positive — Especially with Challenges
Managing client expectations isn’t often discussed, but it is something that can either undermine or support a client’s professional success. Remember that communication is a two-way street: Sometimes, you must listen closely to the concerns and hopes of your clients to know how to help them avoid stumbling blocks along the way. Need help developing a career plan for your client’s success? MedCerts Workforce experts can help.