Issues with suppliers and customers can—and do—happen. Material deliveries get delayed, or the wrong product arrives; some customers have unrealistic expectations or are uncooperative. It goes with the territory when you’re a contractor! 

When things don’t go according to plan, many people have a knee-jerk reaction. They express frustration and, based on what they feel is their right, often demand an immediate resolution. They want the matter fixed, no matter the cost to the other party.

But that isn’t the best way to handle things. Burning bridges rarely is! Instead, lead with wisdom when faced with a problem.

Wisdom: the soundness of an action or decision with regard to the application of experience, knowledge, and good judgment.

That’s a fancy way of saying to use common sense and think beyond the issue at hand. Consider more than just dollars and cents; think about how a solution will impact your relationship with the other party—and potentially others who get pulled into the fray.

The best outcome will likely be one in which there’s compromise rather than a one-sided resolution in favor of just one party.