How do you go about quitting a project/firing a client in a way that has the least collateral damage

Recently, I stumbled upon this question:

As a freelancer, how do you go about quitting a project/firing a client (where it is truly not a respectful collaboration) in a way that has the least collateral damage to the project itself and your reputation?

Interesting question, indeed.

In fact, there’s no such thing as “the least collateral damage to the project itself”, at the end of the day “is just work”.

So, the key part of this question is about the collateral damage to your reputation.

A possible path

First off, you should fulfill your contract in order to keep your reputation intact.

Basically:

• Make sure you’ve finalized all the details with your client.

Check your contract, find the opportunity to quit where it matches your contract specifications.

• Plan how you’ll transfer your responsibilities.

Don’t leave your client stranded in a project milestone.

Notify your client and give her/him enough and on time to find your replacement. Try to help her/him in the process, Being a good person always helps.

• Express gratitude to your client

You never know, every positive testimonial counts.

• Tell your client before anyone else

Be prepared and be positive, a counteroffer is always on any given table. Don’t be rude if you made up your mind and your decision is no turning back.

• Submit your final deliverables

And finally, submit all expected deliverables and wait for your final payment.


Remember, every manager or client knows that she/he will need to replace your position eventually.