Let’s just state it like it is: some clients are simply impossible to deal with.  Whether they have impossible requests, low payouts, or a tendency to nag, there are some that just don’t deserve your time or expertise.  So, as a professional freelancer, is it okay to fire a difficult freelancing client?  Here is my take on the topic.

Times when it is okay to fire a client

A few years ago, I talked about how to deal with a difficult client, and I think it is something that I need to dive back into.  In a post-AI blog writer world, there are people in two camps: those who appreciate business content writers (and other freelancers) for their professionalism and human-ness, and those people who are using you to test how well you do versus AI.  I think you can guess what category the second group falls into…

Ahem.  Anyway.  Here are a few real instances where I say a firm yes, it is okay to fire a difficult freelancing client:

• A client tells you overtly you are competing with AI: As I’ve said before, I’m not anti-AI.  However, if a client tells me something that implies I’m competing with AI, or that AI could do what I’m offering at half the price in half the time, etc., then I immediately end the relationship with the client.  Whether it is a first-time client or a long-term client, this is my approach.  If that client is trying to compare what I do to what a machine does, they will never appreciate the work and creativity that go into my final deliverable.  In those cases, AI-generated content will be the best content for them.
• A client has unrealistic expectations: I Don’t know about any of you, but I also find that AI in the business world has led some clients to believe that every freelancer can do everything.  If a client has unrealistic expectations before a project starts, while it’s happening, or after it ends, this is typically when I end my relationship with them.  I usually will do that by reminding them what I can and cannot offer and making sure they are very clear on those professional boundaries!
• A client belittles or insults you: I really hope this one is a no-brainer, but in case it isn’t, I’m putting it here.  If someone belittles you or your work, or insults you or your work, then that’s an immediate termination from my end.  Regardless of frustration or confusion, it is never okay to accept behaviour that devalues you, your profession, or the hard work that you do for deserving clients and projects each day.

Freelancing is just as valid as any other situation

Freelancing does look and feel a little different from other social and transactional situations, but when it comes to doing what is best for you as a professional, you should give yourself space to fire someone who is being difficult in the ways discussed above.  I agree with this even more now than before AI took over.

Does anyone disagree with what I’m saying?  Let me know!