This podcast episode from The Business BFF, with Emma Bowdler (founder of The Women’s Accountant) focuses on handling challenging clients. Host Emma Bowdler emphasises the importance of setting clear boundaries and recognising when to end client relationships that are no longer serving your business.

The episode provides practical advice on breaking up with clients professionally, including sample scripts and tips for attracting ideal clients. By implementing these strategies, business owners can create a more positive and profitable client experience.  

Key Takeaways: 

1.  Identify and Address Problem Clients: Recognise and document the behaviours of difficult clients (late payments, unreasonable demands, disrespect). 
2. Set Clear Boundaries: Establish non-negotiable standards and communicate them clearly to clients upfront through contracts and engagement letters. 
3. Recognise When to Part Ways: Identify signs that it's time to end a client relationship (e.g. dread, ignored boundaries, and unprofitability). 
4. Break Up Professionally: End client relationships directly and professionally without over-explaining. Focus on your business needs and offer referrals. 
5. Attract Ideal Clients: Define your ideal client, audit your messaging to align with their needs, and raise your standards to attract the best clients for your business.  

Timings: 

00:00 Introduction 

01:22 Set your standards and boundaries 

03:29 Recognising it’s time to break up 

06:06 How to break up professionally 

08:24 Meeting the right clients 

09:12 Audit your messaging 

10:52 Raise your standards 

13:30 Benefits of breaking up 

15:23 Conclusion