Client relationships are complicated. They’re often part of a larger relationship, providing a “bridge” to other potential clients and to your industry. Sometimes they’re valuable for more than just money – connections, brand name recognition and portfolio-worthy work are all important, especially for small businesses.
If you’re considering how to fire a client, you’ve probably reached the end of your rope and see no other way out. You’re not necessarily wrong, but you do need to pause and consider your options.
As Tony explains it, “If you’re willing to do business with just anybody, you’re going to have a terrible business.” Firing a client can sometimes be part of recognizing the value of your business. You don’t need people who want to tear you down in your space.
Don’t run your business like a salesperson. You need to run your business like you’re the owner of something truly valuable – because you are.
When is firing a client the right thing to do?
Firing a customer/client is always a last resort. But if you’ve had honest conversations about your roadblocks and see no improvement, it could be time to consider how to fire the client – especially in these four situations.
1. They don’t listen to you
Your client hired you because you are the expert – or so you would think. But every businessperson has run into the “know-it-all” client. They don’t listen to your recommendations. They micromanage your projects. They directly contradict you on things you’re absolutely sure about. Sometimes it seems they purposely block you at every turn. It’s unprofessional at best and disrespectful at worst. And it’s always inefficient, costing you more money than you might realize. Firing a client or customer is almost always the right decision in this case.
2. There’s no communication
Does your client skip out on weekly meetings, take days to respond to emails and refuse to answer your calls? Do they disappear for days or weeks at a time, only to show up and demand something they never actually approved? Worse yet, maybe your customer doesn’t keep you updated on their own internal news, so you’re unexpectedly hit with changes in direction or company hierarchy. Poor communication is a sign that it’s time to start thinking about how to fire a customer.
3. They take up too much time
On the other hand, many clients communicate . They make demands that aren’t in their contract, expect immediate responses and don’t respect your deadlines. Time is money, and business is about making money.Wondering how to fire a client? In this case, immediately! You may be tempted by a big, influential brand name that looks great on your website or by a personal connection that could come in handy down the line – but you must weigh these things against the time (and therefore money) you are losing by dealing with this client or customer every day.
