Yeah I'm at a similar point - I can't yet afford to dump them I've just had a very bad week - earnings wise, with not enough customers when I do get overwhelmed they are going to be the first to go!
You have to drop them otherwise you will have a round half full on not this time customers.
Start as you mean to go on. Fill your round with quality work and customers who will let you do them whatever the weather.
I did one customer this week and the heavens opened up. It was Raining cats and dogs.
She opened the window and said not today, you must be mad trying to clean them in this.
I replied it was dry when I started so I will finish, I dont work in persisent rain but this is a heavy shower. The rain will not dirty your windows as their is no wind blowing. In fact if your unhappy with the results when the windows dry out I will clean them again Free tommorw. So I carried on.
The customer paid when I finnished, I said heres my card give me a ring if you need to. "No it ok, I know thwy will be fine,sorry for complaing".
You have to show whos in charge, Another customer this week said no thanks not today the windows are still clean,I will get the money I owe you from last time.
When she paid me I said thankyou and thanks for your custom over the past year but I am afraid I will not be calling again to clean them as I only have customers on my round who want them cleaned regularly, I am not intrested in a customer who wants to pick and choose when she wants them cleaning. I then promptly left.
Firm but polite, If she wants them cleaning again it will be on my terms and with a dearer price.
Nel.