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Welcome to our newsletter #37! Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough attention—firing a client. We’re often told the client is always right, and we need to bend over backward to keep everyone happy. But the truth is, sometimes you have to step back and ask yourself: Is this client really worth it?
I recently had a situation that made me reflect on this. A potential client reached out, projected to bring in about $50k annually, which is no small amount. After numerous Zoom calls, emails, multiple proposal revisions, and team meetings, it became crystal clear that this was not a good fit. The constant back-and-forth, changing directions, and nitpicking the proposal wasn’t just frustrating—it was a sign of trouble ahead. Sure, $50k sounds great, but at what cost?
Chasing money, no matter the amount, can sometimes do more harm than good. If a client is difficult in the initial stages—during expectation setting, aligning on goals, or even just communication—that’s only going to multiply once the work actually starts. And the headaches? They’ll pile up fast. It’s like trying to run uphill with weights strapped to your legs. You’ll exhaust yourself trying to keep up, and other important areas of your business will suffer.
So, how do you decide when to cut ties before they even form? Here are a few tips that have helped me:
1. Listen to Your Gut
You know when something feels off. Trust that instinct. If you’re already second-guessing how the relationship is going to play out based on early conversations, it’s a red flag you can’t ignore.
2. Evaluate the Time Trade-Off
Ask yourself: what would I be doing with the time I’m about to spend on this client? Is the time, energy, and mental space this client will require worth it? Often, you’ll find that freeing yourself up allows you to focus on clients who don’t drain your energy—and those are the ones that really help you grow.
3. Set Clear Boundaries
If a client can’t respect your boundaries or constantly tries to shift the goalposts, it’s a sign of more problems to come. Boundaries protect your time, your sanity, and your business.
4. Think Long-Term
What are the long-term effects of taking on this client? More stress? More work with unclear expectations? You need to weigh the future costs against the immediate financial gain. Sometimes, saying no today opens doors for better opportunities tomorrow.
When I finally made the decision to walk away, it wasn’t easy. In fact, it took a lot of reflection. But here's what I realized: the time I would've wasted going in circles with them has already been spent strengthening relationships with my current clients, finding new business opportunities, and improving the services my team and I provide.
The hardest part of running a business isn’t always about bringing in revenue—it’s about making smart decisions that ensure the long-term health of your company. Sometimes that means making tough calls like firing a client or turning down a big job, even when it stings a bit financially in the short term.
So, if you’re facing a similar situation—maybe a client is taking more than they’re giving, or you’re seeing the warning signs of trouble ahead—take a step back. Reflect. Consider what’s best for you and your business.
It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to protect your time and your energy. It’s okay to put yourself and your business first.
Walking away from a client doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re growing, making space for better opportunities, and positioning yourself for success in the long term. You don’t need to say yes to everything to flourish. Sometimes, your biggest growth comes when you say no to the wrong opportunities.
Stay focused, stay true to your vision, and remember—every ‘no’ can lead to a better ‘yes.’ ✌️
Justin Hubbard
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