The main goal for every business is to establish mutually beneficial, long-term relationships with a steady group of clients. However, as with any relationship in life, some clients aren’t “keepers.” When one or both parties in a business relationship are seeing repeated problems or aren’t seeing expected results, both sides will likely be better served if they part ways.
There are definite signs to watch for that will let you know when it’s time to respectfully end a partnership with a client. Below, 11 members of Business Journals Leadership Trust share their expert advice on how to tell when a client isn’t the right fit for your business.
5. Their team isn’t fully on board.
Ensuring alignment up front is essential, but alignment can waver along the way. Have the tough conversation immediately or the work will not be successful. Know who the key decision makers and influencers are. For example, in our work, usually the CEO of the company hires us; however, if the CFO or COO isn’t on board, the work will be very difficult. Similarly, if the company’s board hires us but the CEO is not on board, our work will not be successful. – Aviva Ajmera, SoLVE KC