how to fire a client (& not lose your damn mind doing it)
- Erikka Shockley
- Oct 14
- 3 min read
There comes a point in every business where you realize something most people don’t talk about ... YOU ARE ALLOWED TO FIRE CLIENTS.
Not “hope they disappear quietly.”
Not “just deal with it until the invoice clears.”
FIRE. THEM.
Because at some point, keeping the peace starts costing you your sanity ... and that’s way too expensive these days.
→ step 1: recognize when it’s not just “difficult” ... it’s disrespectful
There’s a big difference between a client who’s high-maintenance and one who’s flat-out crossing lines.
Here’s what that can look like...
*Repeatedly ignoring your boundaries or office hours.
*Talking to you like you work for them instead of with them.
*Making passive-aggressive or inappropriate comments (yes, even “jokes”).
*Calling, texting, or messaging outside of agreed communication channels.
*Making you uncomfortable ... whether it’s tone, behavior, or personal remarks.
If someone’s behavior is making you feel uneasy, dismissed, or disrespected, that’s not you “being sensitive.”
That’s you noticing a line being crossed ... and that’s your cue to protect your space.
→ step 2: you don’t need a scandal ... you need a spine.
When it’s time to cut ties, keep it clean and direct.
You DO NOT owe an explanation, especially if their behavior made you uncomfortable.
Keep it simple ...
“Hey [ insert name here ] , After reviewing our work together, I don’t think this partnership is the right fit moving forward. I’ll finalize [specific obligation] by [date] and wish you the best in finding someone who better fits your needs.”
That’s it.
No drama. No apology.
You’re not making a scene ... you’re making a boundary.
→ step 3: document everything (because people are wild)
Keep a paper trail. ALWAYS.
If a client crosses lines or makes you uncomfortable, save the messages, emails, and receipts.
Not because you plan to use them ... but because protecting your peace also means protecting your business.
If things ever escalate (like bad reviews, rumors, or harassment), having documentation helps you respond professionally, not emotionally.
→ step 4: handle fallout like a pro
Sometimes, people can’t handle rejection ... and they’ll act out.
They’ll gossip.
They’ll leave a passive-aggressive review.
They’ll play victim.
Here’s your playbook...
*DON’T ENGAGE PUBLICLY ... respond once, professionally, if needed. Then log off.
*DON’T VAGUE-POST... You don’t need to feed the fire to prove your point.
*DO HOLD YOUR GROUND ... Your silence is often louder than any comeback.
People who know your integrity won’t question it.
People who don’t ... never mattered anyway.
→ step 5: reclaim your energy
Every business owner has that one client who made them doubt their entire career for a week.
You learn from it.
You tighten your systems.
You get stronger.
Firing a client doesn’t make you ungrateful.
It makes you a professional who knows when enough is enough.
You didn’t start a business to be disrespected ... you started it to build a life on your terms. And anyone who can’t respect that doesn’t deserve a seat at your table.
here is your reality check...
If a client’s comments, tone, or behavior would get them fired at any normal job ... you have every right to fire them too.
You don’t need to explain, justify, or sugar-coat it.
You owe yourself a safe, respectful work environment.
Protecting your peace isn’t overreacting ...
it’s running your business like the boss you said you wanted to be.🖤
Signed,
your marketing & small business bestie 💅
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