Fallen out of love with a client

Fallen out of love with a client

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OK, this follows on slightly from my post the other day about billing for extras. Some of your comments were so precise and they have made me think over the types of clients I am dealing with . I now have a hit list and will dump as soon as possible. However, there is one I now particular cannot stand (to an irrational level) and need rid of immediately. Unfortunately they have been paying me monthly and their company year end has just passed 31 Oct. I cannot leave them up in the air like this as it would not be professional.  But the thought of doing the actual work is making me feel sick!  That is no exaggeration.  Would anyone be kind enough to take this off my hands in a sub contract way. However, I don't want to put you off but it is likely to be an ugly one. Or what should I do?  Just plug away at the accounts and get them done asap and then dump them.  That's probably best since I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Has anyone else found themselves in this position, i.e. need to divorce a client, the marriage is unworkable?

Replies (11)

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By User deleted
07th Nov 2013 15:23

Get it done

Get the job done pronto & think of the money while you're doing it (in the hope it'll make you feel better). Then as soon as its done kick them into touch. You'll feel like you've been professional enough to not leave them in the lurch, they have a year to find a new bod. Sorted.

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By imbs
07th Nov 2013 15:25

ok then

Just brace myself and get it over with.  I'll tackle it  next week, I need to get them out of my life.  Thanks, I just need some wise experienced people to keep my chin up as you can see!!

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Replying to atleastisoundknowledgable...:
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By marie2263
07th Nov 2013 21:03

client

imbs wrote:

Just brace myself and get it over with.  I'll tackle it  next week, I need to get them out of my life.  Thanks, I just need some wise experienced people to keep my chin up as you can see!!

 

If you just walk away be aware they may ruin your reputations, god knows what they might come out with best to just finish off and get them out of your life!

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Jennifer Adams
By Jennifer Adams
07th Nov 2013 15:55

Flash is right...

summon up all your courage and be brave. I know it wont help you to say this - but we've all been there!

Think about it - you know how to prepare the accounts and what needs to be done. You therefore can do it quicker than anyone else and that someone else might charge a bit for sorting out.

Set aside however much time you need and try to do it all in one go. Doing it over a period of a few days or even a week will make the pain harder to bear.

Dont increase fee or even reduce (he might stay!) and then get him to come in as soon as possible. Do the accounts, see client, send tax return - issue invoice and then immediately he pays ring him to say 'thanks' but you are very sorry you wont be able to do his work next year. No need to give a reason but if he asks say that you have been considering increasing your more specialist work and his business does not fit in with your ideas.

You need to be careful what you say as you never know who he might know especially if you are a small accountant in a small town - you dont want him to go telling people that you are the horrible one!

 

 

 

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By neileg
07th Nov 2013 16:00

Take a glass...

... of your preferred tipple and get stuck in. If you get seriously brassed off in the middle, take time out and write your disengagement letter. Keep it polite and factual but firm.

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By User deleted
07th Nov 2013 16:22

In one go

I'd agree with doing it in one go as well. Like a plaster - get the pain over and done with quickly. The alcohol sounds good too, but not to excess till afterwards.

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By imbs
07th Nov 2013 16:53

Thanks everyone

Gosh I'd be a mess without AWeb for counselling.  I will take the bull by the horns.  Small town, too small to annoy a client so will keep it professional and I like your get out JAADMS about not fitting into my line of work, I'll use that.  Much much appreciation everyone

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Replying to johnjenkins:
Red Leader
By Red Leader
07th Nov 2013 16:58

no need to do it

There is no deadline looming, so why do you have to do the work? You could repay the monthly payments and resign.

Given your stress level, with this client, that is what I would do. It's not unprofessional. You will feel a LOT better afterwards.

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By ron burgandy
07th Nov 2013 20:04

Why the hatred?

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By ron burgandy
07th Nov 2013 20:05

Why the hatred?

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By Outofpractice
07th Nov 2013 20:37

If you really want help
I'm in Carrick and could do it sub contract for you if you want.

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