Navigating the Client Breakup: When to Let Go and How to Move On

In this episode, Meredith and Melissa dive into the challenging yet necessary conversation every agency owner faces—the client breakup. They share how to recognize when it’s time to part ways with a client, the steps to prepare for the conversation, and what to do after it’s done. The discussion includes actionable tips for handling these situations professionally and with confidence, ensuring that business growth isn’t hindered by clients who no longer align with your agency. If you’ve ever struggled with letting go of a client, this episode is packed with the insights you need to move forward and make space for the clients that will help you thrive.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• The signs that it’s time to break up with a client and how to evaluate your current relationships
• How to prepare for the breakup conversation and set yourself up for success
• The importance of keeping it professional and focusing on business fit, not personal feelings
• Actionable steps to structure the conversation and ensure a smooth transition
• What to do after the breakup: Reflecting on lessons learned and making room for growth

Actionable Takeaways:

• Regularly evaluate your client relationships using energy, finance, and growth as metrics.
• Create a transition plan to set your clients up for success while protecting your business.
• Be honest, but kind, during the breakup conversation—focus on business fit, not personal shortcomings.
• Don’t feel guilty for breaking up with clients—it’s an essential step for business growth and alignment.
• Use client breakups as learning experiences to refine your vetting process and improve your future partnerships.

Real Talk Moments:

• Letting go of clients can feel emotional, but it's necessary for business growth. It’s about creating space for the clients who align with your goals.
• Breakups are never easy, but they can be empowering when handled with clear communication and professionalism.
• Transparency during the breakup conversation helps to reassure your client and avoids leaving them in limbo.
• Remember, it’s not personal—sometimes business partnerships just outgrow each other, and that's a positive thing.

Thanks to Our Sponsor, Metricool:

Metricool is the tool we use for social media management and reporting. It helps you manage your social media, track performance, and create engaging content all in one place.

Try Metricool free!

Connect with Us:

Follow us for more insights on agency growth strategies. You can find us on Instagram and LinkedIn. Join our Agency Advice Column here.

For all inquiries, contact us at hello@agencydarlings.com

-

About Your Hosts:

Melissa Lohrer is the Founder of Waverly Ave Consulting, a Growth Consultancy for indie agencies. She partners with agency owners to create seven-figure growth through strategic repositioning, modern revenue models, and relationship-based sales. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Meredith Fennessy Witts is the Founder of Le Chéile, the go-to finance and strategy consultancy for creative agencies scaling beyond seven figures. She helps creative founders clarify their cash flow, restructure niche offers and pricing, and ensure they’re running a profitable business...in a mindful way. Connect with her on LinkedIn and Instagram.

‍