3 Signs it’s Time to Fire a Client

Developing and maintaining a client connection may be a difficult balancing act, particularly for entrepreneurs. It’s only natural to want to take every means possible to keep your clientele satisfied and preserve that source of income. Firing a client is never an easy decision, but it may be necessary for the growth and sustainability of your business. 

If you’re struggling to determine when it’s time to part ways or how to approach the conversation, you’re in the right place. We’ll discuss signs it’s time to move on from a client and provide tips on how to politely fire a client. We understand it’s not a pleasant topic, but by approaching the situation with empathy and professionalism, you can make the process as smooth as possible.

1. They consistently disrespect your boundaries.

Maintaining a productive professional relationship with a client that routinely pushes your boundaries can be challenging. It might be time to think about breaking up with a client if they consistently disrespect your boundaries. That could look like:

• Expecting a response to messages sent after business hours
• Wanting you to undertake extra work without paying for it
• Not giving you enough time to finish a project
• Late invoice payments

Even though it’s never easy to fire a client, it’s crucial to put your well-being and the development of your business first. You can choose and uphold the boundaries appropriate for you.

2. You have new offerings.

When you’re working with a client, both parties should be satisfied with the work being done. However, sometimes your services may evolve and no longer fit within the current package your client has. Alternatively, you may find you no longer enjoy working on a project with your client. In these situations, it may be time to consider parting ways. 

3. They cause excess stress.

Maintaining a healthy working relationship with clients can be challenging. As an entrepreneur, it’s vital to your business to maintain your mental health; when a client causes you excess stress, it can affect many areas of your life. It may be time to consider breaking up with a client if you don’t enjoy working with them. You might even get to the point of dreading when a message from them comes in. 

Quick Tips for Firing a Client

Now that we’ve covered some potential signs of when it may be time to fire a client, let’s go over a few quick tips on how to do it.

Be professional.

It’s important to maintain a professional approach when it comes time to fire a client. We recommend being courteous and respectful throughout the process, even if you face some backlash.

Make it clear when you’re done and the process for offboarding.

Use a courteous and respectful tone when you break the news. Clearly communicate your process for offboarding and provide any necessary support during the transition.

Be willing to have a conversation if they ask for it.

Some clients will want to have a conversation about your departure. Adhere to their request to explain why you need to break up with them. 

You don’t have to be specific about why you’re leaving.

In your breakup email (template below!), you don’t have to be specific about why you’re leaving, especially if it’s personal to the client. All you owe the client is a formal reason why you’re parting ways.

Script for Firing a Client

By now, you should know if you need to fire a client. If the answer is ‘yes’, I’m here to help you get through it. These templates will help in ensuring you communicate your message clearly and concisely.

Dear (insert name),

I want to thank you for your partnership over the last (insert timeframe). I’ve really enjoyed being part of your team and working with you!

As I continue to develop my business and skill sets, I need to make some changes to my business. Starting (insert date) I will now be (insert what will be changing – package, pricing, etc.) and cannot retain you as a client. Our contract requires a (insert timeframe) notice, so I will continue working with you through (insert date) to give you some time to find a replacement.

Thank you for understanding, and I wish you the best of luck in the future! 

Best,

(your name)

Firing a client is never an easy decision, but it may be necessary for the growth and sustainability of your business. By recognizing the signs that it’s time to part ways, you can be confident in your decision to discontinue your work with them. Approach the situation with professionalism to make the process as smooth as possible. You got this!

About Solution Integrators

To keep it simple, I’m Ashley, a Chief Systems Officer. I take your complex problems and find ways to simplify them. My goal isn’t just to save you time (saving you time is the easy part!) – I want to fully level up the way you interact, manage, and fulfill offers for your clients. I want to help you provide a cohesive experience. An experience that not only feels like quality but looks that way too. From onboarding to offboarding – I want to transform each phase of interaction from lead to signed client. Let’s work together!