How to Politely Fire a Client

 Is there a client you find yourself consistently annoyed with? 

Do you find your ideas for the business moving forward don’t align?

Do you feel undervalued or controlled to the point that you can’t do your job properly or attend to other clients in the way you need to? 

You always want whats best for both yourself and your clients, and sometimes this can mean parting ways and moving forward separately in the best interest of both parties. 

This can be difficult, as the conversation of ‘firing’ a client is uncomfortable and can lead to hurt feelings. Friction may have been building on both sides for quite some time, or maybe your client is completely oblivious to the fact that you are not gelling well. Either way you want to be understanding, respectful and kind. Always remembering that this interaction will leave a lasting impression on the client, and that word of mouth can have a huge impact on business.

So, how can you politely break up with a client? 

First off, don’t make any decisions on a whim. Take some time to mull it over, and make sure this is an account you truly want/need to end. Check your ego and ensure that isn’t playing a role in the decision. What are the issues you are facing with the client? Could they potentially be resolved with an honest conversation or are your values and ideas completely different?

If you make the decision to end your relationship with a client, here are some key things to avoid in your delivery and explanation as to why;

• Never insinuate that it was the clients fault or place blame, if possible shift your reasoning to other personal or business circumstances  
• If possible, don't leave any loose ends and incomplete projects, if this is not possible make sure you provide a detailed hand over so someone else can continue the work and offer a refund for those services that were not fulfilled 
• Don’t let your decision become a discussion, be firm and final
• Have a conversation either over the phone or in person, a firing over email will come across as cold and passive, as the receiver cannot interpret your tone or body language 

Some important things that you should consider doing;

• Create a document or checklist of some sort detailing any tasks you will complete before ending the relationship permanently, or any outstanding payments due 
• Check your contract with the client and ensure that you have fulfilled all contractual obligations and strictly adhere to any terms/conditions outlined
• Provide your client with a report of the services you provided during your contracted period and results and deliverables achieved and thank them for their trust
• If you wish to, offer up suggestions for someone who may be better suited to the job who can replace you, this, however, is not completely necessary or something you owe

We have all found ourselves in a business pairing of some nature the just didn't feel right, and that is completely fine. The way you handle ending that relationship however can be truly defining for the future of your business, so be calculated, careful and considerate with the way you fire a client. 

Nikki X