How to fire a client politely
Some clients cost more than they pay. The calls run long, the scope moves every week, the invoices go late, and you dread their name in your inbox. Ending it feels dramatic. It isn't. It's a business decision, and it fits in five sentences.
Decide before you write
Pick the last day of work and what you will hand over. Don't open the conversation until you know both. A vague goodbye invites a negotiation.
The email
Hi Sam, I've decided to wrap up our work together at the end of this month. I'll finish the April edition and send over all files and logins by the 30th. After that I'm not able to take on new work for the account. I'm glad to recommend a couple of people if that helps. Thanks for the last eight months.
That's it. A date, what they get, what stops, an offer, a thank you.
What to leave out
The list of grievances. You will want to include it. Don't. It turns a clean exit into an argument, and it's the part they'll repeat to other people. You don't need a reason. "It's not the right fit for me going forward" is complete.
If they push back
They may offer more money or promise to change. If that would genuinely fix it, fine. If not, one line: "I appreciate that, but my decision stands. I'll make sure the handover is clean." Then make the handover clean. That's what keeps the reference.
The Kill Switch is this email, already written, plus what to say when they push back. One page, plain text included. $12, instant download.
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