Managing The Client Lifecycle as a VA or OBM with Michelle Broadbent

Signing a new client feels exciting. The discovery call goes well, the proposal is accepted, and you’re officially “in”.

But what happens after that?

In our industry, we talk a lot about attracting and onboarding clients. And yes, those stages matter. But if you want a sustainable, profitable VA or OBM business, the real work and the real opportunity sits in everything that follows.

In this episode, Adrienne Donnelly chats with Michelle Broadbent, business mentor and founder of Accountability Circle, about the four stages of the client lifecycle and how to manage each one with clarity, confidence, and professionalism. Michelle works closely with female founders and brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what makes client relationships thrive, and what quietly causes them to unravel.

Together, they unpack how to position yourself as a trusted partner, protect yourself with strong foundations, deepen retainer relationships, and confidently navigate renewals or endings when the time comes.

You’ll hear about:

🌱 The four stages of the client lifecycle: Attract, Engage, Manage, and Renew (or Release)

🌱 Why positioning yourself as a business owner, not an employee, changes the dynamic instantly

🌱 Setting clear expectations, boundaries, and terms from the very beginning

🌱 Adding value during long-term retainers so you become indispensable, not replaceable

🌱 How to handle renewals proactively and release misaligned clients gracefully

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to move beyond “just doing the work” and into becoming a true strategic partner in your clients’ businesses, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. You’re not just support. You are building a business of your own. And the way you manage the full client lifecycle shapes the sustainability, profitability, and energy of that business long term.

Resources and Links

🌱 Join the Seed VA community:

Website: https://www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seedvirtualassistants

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1082065292124728

Learn more about the Inner Circle: https://www.seedvirtualassistants.com.au/innercircle

📲 Connect with Michelle Broadbent and Accountability Circle:

Website: https://michellebroadbent.com.au

Instagram: @michbroadbent

🔔 This episode is sponsored by Ready to Boss Legal.

Ready to Boss Legal offers easy-to-use legal templates to help protect your business without the stress or high legal fees. Use code SEED10 for 10% off.

Visit: https://www.readytobosslegal.com.au

If this episode made you feel a little less alone or gave you something to think about, share it with a fellow business bestie. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss what’s new on Seed to Success. 🌱