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How to Fire Bad Clients When You Are a Freelancer

One of the most significant advantages of being a freelancer or a self-employed worker is choosing clients and projects. It is undoubtedly empowering. But what happens when the professional relationship goes sour? Did you ever think about firing some of your clients? This article will explain why it might be necessary to terminate an agreement and advise on how to remain professional if you decide to proceed. <h3>You have the right to choose your clients</h3> Whether you are an experienced professional or not, when you are a self-employed worker, you are the president of your business. It implies a lot of responsibilities, but also some significant advantages. For example, you can decide to work on certain types of projects and choose your clients. Consequently, if a professional relationship does not work at all and ruins your life, it would probably be better to fire your client and look for something else (even if it was a lucrative contract). Do not let a client harm your mental health. Since you are your business, you must take care of yourself. <h3>Different reasons why you should fire your client</h3> There are good and bad clients. We then decided to make a list of different reasons why you should think about firing a client. These reasons are mostly related to the waste of time or money and the stress factors. Of course, you can always discuss with your entourage or other freelancers to know their opinion. <ul> <li> Your client does not respect you. If a client does not respect you, your boundaries, or your work, this is a red flag. You are a professional, not a slave. All professional relationships should be respectful and <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/freelance-life-how-to-set-boundaries-" target="_blank">accept your limits</a>. </li> <li> Your client does not respect the deadlines. It is a waste of time if you are always waiting for your client, especially if they do not respect deadlines that both parties set. </li> <li> Your client does not pay you. If your client always has an excuse regarding your payment, run away. All work deserves to be rewarded. You will save time and be more relaxed if you work with trustworthy people who pay you quickly. </li> <li> Your client always changes their mind. Once more, if your client does not respect what was first accepted, this is a waste of time. You can invite them to think about what they really want and contact you back when they are ready. </li> <li> Your client refuses that you increase your rates. If you are busy and <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-to-inform-your-clients-of-a-rate-increase" target="_blank">want to increase your prices</a>, why not only keep the good clients? Work with people that will recognize the value of your work. </li> <li> You have no more time. Whether you have accepted a lot of projects or you have fewer hours available, it is possible that you do not have enough time to fulfill your client’s requests. </li> <li> Your client is stressful. It may simply not be a match between you and your client. Instead of insisting, it might be better to terminate this business relationship to save your mental health. </li> </ul> <h3>Protect yourself with a contract of services</h3> Since there might be a lot of consequences when you decide to terminate a business relationship, it could be relevant to protect yourself <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/the-importance-of-having-a-good-contract-of-services" target="_blank">with a contract of services</a>. Indeed, besides planning how the project should be done, you can add a section on how to terminate the agreement. Tell how one of the parties can end the business relationship. You can write that there can be a one-month notification delay, for example. In case of doubt regarding the creation of your contract of services, we strongly suggest that you contact a business lawyer. <h3>How to fire a client in a professional way</h3> If you have decided to fire a client, here are a few tips to remain professional in the process. It is not always easy; however, keep in mind that you will probably feel better once you do not work with this person anymore. 1- Check your contract of services and respect your terms as much as possible As we just mentioned, your contract of services can be a great ally when you want to fire a client. As written in the contract, you can say that some terms were not respected, and you have decided to terminate this business relationship. 2-  Be brief Do not start explaining all the reasons you want to end your business relationship. Instead, say something neutral, like I do not think I am the right person to answer your needs, or I cannot continue to work with you because I do not have enough time. Be brief and avoid lies. 3- Stay polite and professional Although it can be challenging if you have a disrespectful client, try to stay calm and police during the firing process. We never know the future; this person could refer you, or you might work together on another project later. Even if it is often not a positive thing to do, you will keep your credibility if you remain professional. 4- Provide a solution (if it is relevant) If you had a good relationship with your client, you can provide a solution. Can you refer this person to another freelancer you know? In sum, your client will appreciate the fact that you found them some alternative solutions. In conclusion, it is not always easy to manage clients. It is then essential to work with people you get along with. Remember that you can always fire clients if needed. Do not hesitate to discuss with other self-employed workers if you have some issues or questions. We also invite you to discover <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/8-tips-from-our-freelancers-to-new-entrepreneurs">the advice of many experienced freelancers.</a> There are many tips on how to find the right contracts. Good luck!

Ariane