Client violates the contract you’ve both signed.
Overview
A breach of contract is a serious matter and should be dealt with immediately. It’s best to be direct but not accusatory when your first bring it up with your client. Let them know you want to resolve the matter but a breach of agreed-to terms will not be tolerated.
Hi <Client>,
I’m reaching out to you to discuss something that’s concerning me.
I feel this matter may effect our working relationship and I’d like to resolve it as soon as possible.
It’s come to my attention that <insert the problem / breach of contract>
This matter is serious and may prevent us from completing our project.
I’d like to see how we can get on the same page about this and come to a resolution.
Let’s arrange a time to speak this week to find a solution to this issue and move forward.
I can make a call at the following times this week. Let me know which of these work for you:
<Day / Date / Time>
<Day / Date / Time>
<Day / Date / Time>
I’ll wait for your reply.
<You>
Notes & Strategy
Be direct and preface the conversation with good intentions.
Ask for their side of the story, but let them know you won’t settle for their behavior to continue
Let them know the situation is serious and you want to resolve it because your working relationship is on the line
You don’t want to be accusatory at first; this will put your client on the defensive and may not lead to a constructive conversation.
It’s best to have a phone/ Zoom call to discuss the matter.
The problem and the resolution may be nuanced.
Let your client know their behavior is preventing you from doing your best work.
If a resolution is reached where you’re not comfortable with the outcome, it’s best to drop the client and move on.