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When to Fire Your Client

Written by: Patti D. Hill

Article Overview: Not all clients fit all PR firms, and visa versa. When the relationship is not a fit, it's best to break up.

When to Fire Your Client

I am absolutely certain of what makes a perfect client for BlabberMouth PR. They are companies run by interesting, knowledgeable and passionate individuals. These individuals, like us, share their knowledge, network and compassion (can you say lovecat?). They understand our value to their organization, they’re appreciative of our work, their thanks are offered willingly and frequently, and their checks arrive on time.

It stands to reason that I can similarly identify those who do not make good BlabberMouth PR clients. They provide scant or no information, their expectations are inflated (despite repeated attempts to help them grasp reality), their payments are always late, and their passion….well, let’s just suffice to say - if there is any passion at all, it’s completely lost to us.

So – what’s one to do when the realization hits you that your client is not a good fit for your company?

READY, AIM – AIM – AIM, FIRE

It’s entirely possible that the PR practitioner / client relationship is off track and may need a bit of restructuring. It is also possible that the client doesn’t realize he or she is exhibiting behavior that’s not appropriate. A serious meeting outlining relationship parameters may be the best solution and could quickly eliminate the problem.

Or not.

If an in-depth conversation outlining boundaries does not rectify the problem, the issues could be much deeper. It could be a misalignment of values. If the working relationship is such that you cannot deliver on your brand promise to your organization’s standards, it may be best for both parties to terminate the account.

Regardless of the reasons for termination, it is possible to make the separation a win / win situation. Tell the truth and offer to find a suitable replacement. Even with this, there are those who will not take this well. In which case, you cut all ties and walk away. Maintain your professionalism, exercise your good judgment and begin taking steps to attract your perfect client.

Remember - money isn’t everything. Closing the door on an unsuitable client opens the door to one that is.

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