Have you ever received a message like this before?
“We regret to inform you that your services will no longer be required.”
It’s one of the worst things that can happen to a freelancer – losing a client.
In 2022, technology firms laid off 154,843 employees and during the last global recession, businesses had to make difficult decisions to cut back on staff which impacted the freelancers they hired.
It can be a tough pill to swallow, but don’t worry, you’re not alone, we’ve been there. Sometimes, a client may leave you for reasons beyond your control but whatever the reason, it’s never easy.
But here’s the silver lining: losing a client can actually be an opportunity for growth and improvement. It can prompt you to reassess your skills, services, or marketing strategy and come back stronger than before.
So, how can you make the most of this experience?
We’ve got you covered. We’ve compiled these strategies for handling the loss of a client:
Don't take it personally
Losing a client isn’t always your fault. There are a bunch of reasons why a client may choose to move on, like maybe they have a tight budget or their business needs have changed. So don’t beat yourself up too much about it!
Learn from the experience
Take a breath and reflect on the situation. Could you have done anything differently? Maybe it’s time to sharpen up your communication skills or brush up on a certain service.
Maintain a positive attitude
Stay cool, calm, and collected. Keeping a positive and professional attitude is key to attracting new clients and keeping your reputation intact.
Keep in touch
Don’t be a stranger! Check-in from time to time and see how they’re doing and if there are any projects you could potentially work on together in the future. It’s all about maintaining a positive relationship and showing them that you value their business, even if you’re not currently working together.
Remember to show some love
Always take the time to thank your client for the experience and the opportunity to work with them. Gratitude can go a long way! It’s not just a nice thing to do, it also helps you to maintain a good reputation as a freelancer.
Focus on finding new clients
Don’t let losing a client get you down. Instead, use this as a chance to broaden your horizons and diversify your client base. Spend some time networking, reaching out to potential clients, and upskilling. You never know what new opportunities might come your way!
Many freelancers believe that “losing a client can be a redirection” – it could be a sign that a bigger opportunity is coming your way. So don’t let the loss of a client bring you down. Remember, you are stronger than you think!
The best way to bounce back is to focus on becoming the best version of yourself. Keep striving for new skills and knowledge. Keep hustling because the world is waiting for you to shine.
