Yes, definitely!  

Knowing when to dump a client is key to maintaining your freedom as an independent professional.

But, how do you know?

Well, after more than 10 years of working as a freelancer, I’ve learned a thing or two, most of it the hard way.

Here’s a simple, quick way to know.

Take this quiz.  If the client you’re thinking about earns more than 2 or 3 yes answers, then it’s time to give ‘em the boot.

1. Do you have trouble getting paid from this client? (If they always pay late, or if you need to “dial for dollars” to collect your hard-earned pay each month, then this client has earned their “first strike.”)
2. Do they demand constant attention? (It’s important to have good rapport, but some clients can be overly demanding, which can contribute to a negative working relationship.)
3. Are they unrealistic about timeline or budget? (From the beginning, it’s important to be in sync about what can be done when, and on what budget. If the client expects the impossible, it may be time to say goodbye.)
4. Is this client causing you to neglect better paying clients? (Oops. Don’t forget to keep an eye on your “bottom line.”)
5. Do you avoid answering their emails or calls? (This is strong sign that something is wrong.)
6. If you could find a replacement, would you dump them?  (Why wait?)
7. Do you find the work, the tech, and/or the industry boring?  (Life is too short! We all should be spending the limited time we have doing fulfilling work.)  

Let me know what you think.  Maybe you have other questions to add to the quiz? You can reach me at dan(at]tomboloapp[dawt)com.

(Dan Bloom is a freelance writer and consultant for Israeli startups and tech companies that’s been working with CEO Ifat Ben David and the rest of the Tombolo team from the early days.)