How to Stop Working with a Difficult Customer

Some customers keep asking for changes after a job seems finished. Saying yes every time can make it hard to leave. Creative Boom asked creative workers how they handle this problem. Their advice focuses on clear decisions, clear messages, and a clear end. Leaving politely does not have to mean accepting more work.

First, decide whether you want to leave or change the relationship. Some workers suggest clearer job plans or higher prices for changes. These options may help if you want to keep working together. But they are not the answer if you really want to leave. Be clear about your own decision before speaking to the customer.

Next, read the written agreement and check when you can leave. The article says to follow any agreed period before stopping work. People disagree about how much explanation to give the customer. Some suggest a short message saying you cannot accept more work. Others prefer to explain the problems briefly, using facts rather than anger.

The final message should make three things clear to the customer. Say that you will not accept any more jobs from them. Explain when you will finish the work you have already agreed to. End with a kind message, but do not offer future work. A friendly ending should not make your decision sound uncertain.

Madalena Studio gave a customer four weeks before ending their work together. It then sent over the files at the end. Illustrator Lee Gruber also chose a clear date and passed work over. For future projects, contributors suggest clear agreements and work schedules. These steps make the limits of the relationship easier to understand.