“Client” vs. “Customer”: What’s the Difference?

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The difference between “client” and “customer”

  • A client seeks advice or services from a professional or organization, while a customer buys goods or services from a seller.
  • A client often has a long-term relationship with their service provider, while a customer usually has a one-time transactional relationship with a business.
  • Clients typically have specific and complex needs, while customers have general needs that can be satisfied with standard products or services.
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What is the definition of “client” and “customer”?

Client
  • A person or company that uses the services or advice of a professional or organization.
  • A client often has a long-term relationship with their service provider, where there is a high degree of trust and communication.
  • Clients often have more specific and complex needs than customers, requiring personalized and customized services.
Customer
  • A person who purchases goods or services from a seller.
  • Customers usually have a one-time transactional relationship with a business with little to no lasting interaction or follow-up.
  • Customers typically have more general needs and can be satisfied with standard or mass-produced products or services.

Which is the more popular variant on the Internet?

“Customer” is the more popular variant on the web.
Client
1,350,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. As a freelance writer, I always ensure that my client's needs are met before submitting any work.
  2. It is the job of every financial advisor to manage their client's investments and finances wisely.
  3. Our design agency provides an array of services tailored to meet the specific needs of each client.
More popular
Customer
2,830,000,000 results on the web
Examples
  1. The customer was delighted with the prompt delivery of their order from the online store.
  2. The bank made the process of opening an account easy and hassle-free for new customers.
  3. The store serves 3,000 customers every day.
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