Love & Marriage… Agency Style: 10 Types of Clients You Should Break Up With

In the world of marketing agencies, client relationships are a lot like marriages. Some are built on trust, respect, and mutual growth. Others… well, they belong on a sitcom.
Let’s face it — not every client relationship is meant to last forever. Some of them are downright toxic. You’re not alone if you’ve ever found yourself questioning your career choices after a client call. Here’s a lighthearted (but painfully accurate) look at ten types of clients agencies often encounter — and why you might want to consider filing for a professional divorce.
Table of ContentsThe Abusive ClientThe Cheating ClientThe Hoarding ClientThe Immature ClientThe Forever Single ClientThe Manipulative ClientThe Lazy ClientThe Over-Demanding ClientThe Indecisive ClientThe Workaholic Client
The Abusive Client
No matter what you do, it’s never good enough. They criticize every deliverable, push every boundary, and leave you questioning your sanity. It’s not feedback — it’s a power play. This client doesn’t want a partner; they want control. Your best strategy? Build up your confidence and start planning your exit strategy.
The Cheating Client
They say they love working with you… right before you find out they’re courting other agencies behind your back. This client is always “just exploring options” but conveniently forgets to tell you. Loyalty isn’t in their vocabulary — and neither should they be in your client roster.
The Hoarding Client
This client always claims they have no budget. None. Zero. Zip. Until, of course, you discover they’ve been splurging on projects with other vendors or announcing big new hires. Somehow, their spending freeze only applies to you.
The Immature Client
Think of them as the rebellious teenager of your client list. They demand your help but get defensive or combative the second you offer constructive criticism. Growth requires maturity — and this client isn’t quite there yet.
The Forever Single Client
This is the client who loves to “date” agencies but will never commit. They string you along with promises of future projects and bigger engagements, but deep down, you know you’re not the only one. Commitment issues aren’t just for romantic relationships.
The Manipulative Client
Everything is your fault — even when it’s not. These clients are masterful at controlling the narrative. When results fall short (even if it’s due to their lack of participation), they’ll spin it to blame you. It’s exhausting. And unhealthy.
The Lazy Client
They ghost you on emails, skip feedback sessions, and ignore deadlines. But when things go sideways, they expect you to clean up the mess. A successful partnership takes effort on both sides — this client didn’t get the memo.
The Over-Demanding Client
Scope creep is their love language. They expect far more than you agreed to, change requirements at the last minute, and then berate you for missing deadlines. It’s impossible to keep up — and they know it.
The Indecisive Client
They can’t decide to save their lives. Every deliverable is met with endless revisions, shifting goals, and last-minute pivots. This client will keep you running in circles until you’re dizzy… and broke.
The Workaholic Client
They’re always on, always emailing, and expect you to be as well. They don’t respect boundaries, personal time, or the reality that you have other clients. Burnout isn’t a possibility here — it’s a guarantee.

What Does a Loving Client Relationship Look Like?
Thankfully, not every client relationship is doomed. The best partnerships happen when:

The client and agency genuinely appreciate each other.
Both parties engage in open, honest, and respectful communication.
Realistic deadlines and expectations are set (and met).
Accountability exists on both sides.
And most importantly, they love working together.

End the Abuse. Find the Right Clients.
Agency life is hard enough without toxic relationships draining your energy and passion. The good news? The perfect client match is out there — one who values your work, respects your time, and sees you as a true partner.
Don’t settle for less.
It’s time to swipe left on bad clients and build a future with those who love what you bring to the table.