Learned It From Experience: L.I.F.E. Lesson #10
Fire a client you say? You may still be working to have clients hire you, but I promise this is going to come up and it isn’t an easy realization to come by or execute. We all have our own tolerances and gut feelings for that matter but inevitably we all have taken or will take on a client we shouldn’t have. The reasons are endless and different for all of us. First and foremost, set expectations. This goes back to your contract that you have them sign. You hope to not have to double back and use that contract, but it is there to protect you. My contract that used to be one page, is now 5. With each client, each project, and each issue I face, I have to add another line to my contract.
Have it in your contract. When you already have set the expectation, it is a lot easier to point it out. If you don’t, use mine as an example. Mine says
Cancellation
Either party, upon written notice, may terminate this agreement should the other party fail to perform in accordance with the terms of this agreement.
Style 1519 shall be compensated for all work performed prior to notice of such a termination at the hourly rate of $150.00 for principal designer and $115.00 for senior designer.
Style 1519 has the right to terminate this agreement if the Client refuses to pay according to the outlined schedule under Terms. Additionally, if Client is not current on payments, Style 1519 has the right to withhold any and all product, merchandise, and designs until Client is paid in full, including payment of items upon delivery.
This is not to threaten, it is to protect you and your client. When you are new to the business it is hard to imagine being in this situation. You will. It will be hard, but you will learn and grow from it. Set yourself up for success and address the issue when it arises.
When you feel that it’s time, you need to start the process. If you can it’s best to call or meet with them. This is not always the best option. People are more angry and willing to be rude via email. If you have in your contract that it needs to be in writing, then do that after you meet or talk. Do not use the words ‘Just’ or ‘Apologize’. Be strong but kind with your words. It gets easier with experience, but it is never easy. I promise though, firing a client is not as hard as dealing with said client through a miserable project. You got this!
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