How to Fire a Problematic Client
Happy Happy Tuesday Peeps!
Have you ever wanted to say these two words to a problematic client “You’re FIRED!” but cant bring yourself to do it? If so, you’re in luck. Today I am going to give you 5 Steps that you can use to let go of clients that are causing problems for your business and are not adding to your bottom line.
How to Let Go of a Client
Here are five simple steps that you can use to “fire a client”:
Step 1: Identify the Problematic Client
Before letting go of any of your clients, it is important to think about the long term and consider all the factors of your relationship thoroughly. That said, you must ask yourself the following questions:
- Which client is being “too problematic”?
- What problems are you having with the client?
- What causes these problems?
- Can the problems be avoided or resolved?
Step 2: Communicate the Problems and Offer Solutions
Once you have identified who the problematic client is, reach out to that client and try to reach a compromise (if possible). Clearly point out the problems the both of you are having, and emphasize the problems that you encounter repetitively. Offer possible solutions, and ask the client for his or her opinion before giving them their walking papers.
Step 3: Give a Time Limit
If your relationship with the problematic client continues to be a deteriorating one, then it is time give a time limit. A week or two is generally acceptable, although a month will probably give you and your client enough time to ponder your contract, the problems, and the outputs/revenues you get.
Step 4: Look for New Opportunities and Clients
While discussing and trying to resolve problems with your problematic client, it’s definitely time to start looking for new opportunities or clients. This way, if you decide to actually terminate your relationship with the problem client, you will still have enough new customers in your funnel to keep you busy and bring in revenue for your company.
Step 5: Officially End Your Contract
If the problems with your client persists and if the client him or herself resists your reconciliation offers, insisting on following his or her demands, then you should officially end your contract and fire the problematic client. Finish all the tasks that are left, and notify the client that the time limit has expired. Forward the last invoice, and stand firm in not accepting anymore workload from the client.
Cutting ties with a client can be tough, especially when you have collaborated for quite a long time already. However, if the relationship has turned sour and has already become a source of headache and depression instead of happiness and fulfillment, then ending it will be the better choice.
Have you ever had to fire a client? If yes, then share how you handled it in the comment section below.
