How to Let a Client Go That's No Longer Right for You

Don't pull out the Ben & Jerry's yet - this client breakup does not need to be painful!

It happens - client's change, we change, niches change, we go in different directions, we have different values/methods, we have disagreements. Our relationships with clients are just that, a relationship. And sometimes they get too hard to manage or don't feel like it's beneficial any more and you both have to move forward. Since our reputation and professionalism is on the line and awkwardness can arise, how do we handle a client breakup?

1.) Step One: Honesty and Transparency

Don't give them the ole "its not you it's me," be honest about the situation and what you're feeling. Chance are, if you are noticing discrepancies, they probably are too! So, it might not come as a shock to them and they might feel the same way, either way honest will be the best policy. The only thing better than revenge, moving on in good terms. Let's face it - we don't need any extra stress in our lives!

2.) Step Two: Recommend & Plan

This step is not necessary, but it can be helpful for your reputation management and overall customer experience. Even if you are never ever getting back together, you don't want them to leave your company with a bad taste in their mouth, let them flop, or leave them in a difficult situation. If you want to really smooth over the situation, you can offer a recommendation if you know someone in your industry that they might work better with, or suggest how they can cover this part of the business until they find someone new.

3.) Step Three: Be Cooperative

We know all to well that taking the high road is anything but easy, especially when there is a little bad blood or hurt feelings. However, being cooperative is essential to this process. The last thing you want to do is create more drama or make the transition more time-consuming, you just want to be out of the woods at this point. So, don't hoard their passwords, don't keep their essential information hidden, and don't make the process harder on you or them!

Please note that these are steps to take when the client is also willing to cooperate and be respectful - the 'customer is always right' doesn't apply to someone who is mistreating you or your team.

This ends your guide to the perfect client breakup, even if we did have to channel the breakup queen herself: T Swift. Now you can finally breathe! This can be a difficult transition period. However, having clients that are REALLY your target client persona might seem like your wildest dreams, but it is possible and that feeling is unmatched. Clients make a huge impact on our business and are what make us love what we do - make sure yours are exactly who you want them to