Quality Clients - can you push back?

When you are engaging with clients there is always a need to look after the client and ensure they are always happy and being looked after. So if the client wants/demands something that you feel isn't in their interest, do you cave, or be honest?

I bet each of you say, it "depends", but most often vendors/suppliers would cave for their clients no matter what. That is where I disagree.

I have caved many times to clients but not at their expense. Its the "no matter what" part that I want to explore.

I personally believe that if you have the clients best interests at heart, they will always accept push back. So even if it means disappointing them or not being able to deliver on your promises, if you are honest and have their interests prioritised, they will accept it.

Quality clients will always accept push-back when they believe you have their best interests at heart.

I absolutely stand by this.