CLIENT RELATIONSHIPS
HOW AND WHEN TO
FIRE A CLIENT
BY : STACEY O ' BRIEN
A
As most of us know all too well , client relationships can be problematic . They don ’ t always go our way , and sometimes we end up with clients we would rather not work with . When that happens , it ’ s best to handle the situation delicately and in a professional manner . That ’ s what I ’ m going to teach you today .
HOW TO FIRE A CLIENT RESPECTFULLY
If you ’ re considering firing a client , you ’ ve likely reached the end of your rope with behavior that you ’ re not willing to put up with . We ’ ve been there too . When you reach this point , it ’ s important to remain calm and collected and to keep your composure . The last thing you want is to end the client relationship on a sour note . Here are three ways to fire your client without burning the bridge , ensuring your relationship remains intact .
FINISH YOUR CONTRACT
If you ’ re in the middle of a project for the client you wish to fire , now might not be the right time to end business relations with them . Typically , we recommend finishing up any contracts that are currently on the table before parting ways .
Keep in mind that you probably need to fulfill any active contract unless you want to risk a breach that could make you a target for legal action . Breaking a contract early also means you will be entitled to less pay and may be required to forfeit a deposit you received from the client . For most businesses , this is not ideal because it could severely impact cash flow . Terminating a contract prematurely is especially risky if your client takes offense to being fired .
FRAME IT IN A PROFESSIONAL MANNER
Professionalism is essential in the process of firing a client . Always allow your client the courtesy of meeting them in person or via live video call . This communicates that you value their feedback and that you are invested in making them feel important even though you are there to dismiss them .
Although it may be tempting to tell your client off as you bid them farewell , we strongly suggest you refrain from doing this . Instead , make every effort to frame the dissolution respectfully and professionally . Being respectful and professional may be trying if your client doesn ’ t hold themselves to the same
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