282: The Art of Saying No: How to Ditch Bad Clients and Attract Better Ones with Eric Rozenberg

August 5, 2025
282: The Art of Saying No: How to Ditch Bad Clients and Attract Better Ones with Eric Rozenberg

Have you ever felt that a client was not the right fit for you, yet you ignored your gut feeling and worked with them anyway? 

In this episode, Eric shares two examples of similar situations he experienced in his professional journey, explaining how he handled them and what he learned along the way.

Trust Your Instincts

It is essential to recognize when a potential client or project does not align with your values, standards, or business model. Ignoring your instincts when your gut tells you a client is not the right fit will likely lead to lots of frustration down the line. 

Know Your Worth

Never compromise your pricing just to win business. If a client pressures you to reduce your fees, always stand firm when you know your pricing is fair and reflects the quality of your work. 

Let Go When Respect Isn’t Mutual

Walk away from clients who fail to respect your work. Even though it may feel risky, it will protect your integrity and lead to better opportunities.

Set Clear Boundaries

Define the kind of clients you want to work with and the fees you need to sustain your business. By filtering out unsuitable clients, you ensure your business remains profitable and focused.

Deliver Exceptional Work

When you commit to a client, always over-deliver as your excellence will earn trust and repeat business.

Long-Term Thinking 

Prioritize sustainable relationships over quick wins. You may miss some deals that way, but you will build a stronger and more respected business over time.

Understand Your Clients

Take the time to understand your client’s needs, goals, and expectations. Always ask the right questions upfront to ensure your offer aligns with their objectives and avoid future misunderstandings.

Communicate Your Values

Be clear about how you work, your expectations, and what your clients can count on. Transparency helps to establish trust and discourages potential clients unaligned with your approach.

There Are Always Better Clients

Do not hold on to difficult or undervaluing clients out of fear. There are many respectful and collaborative clients out there who are willing to pay fair rates. When you are clear about the type of clients you want to attract and learn to say no to those who are not the right fit, you create space to find partners who truly support your values.

Bio: Eric Rozenberg

Eric is a business builder and the founder of Event Business Formula, the only platform exclusively dedicated to helping and supporting business owners in the Meetings & Events Industry. He has helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow and manage their businesses better. 

For two decades in a previous life, Eric has consulted with Fortune 500 companies and produced award-winning sales meetings, incentive trips, product launches, and conferences in more than 50 countries across diverse industries. 

His podcast “The Business of Meetings” is the first podcast in the Meetings & Events Industry dedicated to business owners and the largest source of free information, with over 240 episodes and fabulous guests. 

His first book, Meeting at C-Level, is the first book on the Why of a meeting. Twenty of the most influential leaders from the corporate and association worlds endorse this book. 

His second book, Before It’s Too Late, A Love Letter to My Daughters and America, is a story of grit, perseverance, and courage. It describes why and how he and his wife brought their daughters to America and why it is the greatest country on Earth. 

Eric was the first European to serve as Chairman of the International Board of Meeting Professionals International (MPI).

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