A client and freelancer relationship goes through many ups and downs. It’s like a marriage, but not legally bound. Both of them can move on to another better option if either can find it. An experienced freelancer knows that the chances of the next client to be better are thinner than the margins kept during graphic designing. So most of the time the freelancers decide to continue with the same old clients.
There are times when certain habits of the clients get on to the nerves. Some may call it testing times and would like to pass that moment first. But some habits die hard. And such moments become routine. Now, what to do during such testing times?
We’ll share a series on “How to maintain a healthy relationship with your client?”. Starting with “Nagging clients”.
Nagging clients
Difficult clients that are constantly on your head and complaining about every other thing you do. At times, they’re difficult because they’re unhappy with the service you’ve provided. But if it is not so, then try to see the patterns of their behavior.
- It’s NOT what I asked for: If this is the most common response from your client then you better start taking their requirements in black and white. And reply to them, type and respond to each line, mentioning how you have met their requirements. If any deviations are there, ask them to send the deviations in writing.
- One more change: When the clients are unable to finalize the project and the series of changes keep on coming. Don’t name the file versions as date nor as “Final_Final_Final…”. Better start numbering the file submitted with changes. Let the numbering of the files be highlighted in the subject of mails, in mail content, while discussion over the phone, and even while submission (if it’s a final one).
- Know-it-all: Clients who feel they know your job better than you. They may go to an extent to say that you’ve been doing everything wrong since day one. You may feel, if they know-it-all then why are you required. In such conditions, be very specific (technically specific) in your discussions with them. Go in detail while discussing and let them share what is expected out of the project. The more you’ll discuss (technically) the more they’ll realize their own level of expertise in your subject.
- It’s a simple job: “It’s an easy job. You’ll not have any trouble doing it. It’ll be done in no time.” the client says while handing over any new project. And they keep following up with you every now and then as if it was supposed to be completed yesterday (even though the project briefing was done today). In such cases, give a timeline with the expected project completion date – even before you start working on the new project. Let them agree to your timeline first and then you can start.
- 24/7 Contingency: It’s an emergency every second of the day. The project needs to be completed NOW. It is of critical importance and is required urgently. ASAP. Working on such impossible deadlines takes a toll on many freelancers. Serving one client may spoil your timeline with other clients. Share the time required for each job with your client and discuss that even if you try to meet their unrealistic deadlines the project quality will suffer. Do this in writing, again. Also, if you’re going to stretch your working hour, let them know and if possible negotiate a higher price for the same job. Some of the clients may not agree with the higher costs, many times such clients just want their work to be given priority over all of your other clients. Negotiating will help you to know the seriousness of the requirement.
- Loudmouth: There will clients who will shout at you over the phone or may devalue you in person. Such clients are toxic for you and your creativity. Be very careful dealing with such clients. Try to avoid working with such clients, that would be our first recommendation. But then there are unavoidable situations that you’ve to work with them then, first of all, keep calm. Try to keep your communications as short as possible. Use mail or text for most of your communications.
- Bill revision: These are the ultimate negotiator (well, what they think of themselves). They re-negotiate during the time of billing or will try to get the maximum done for free, as we’re “free”lancers. Make a habit of finalizing the costs during the submission of your proposal. And get a confirmation mail from the client on the same. Also, discuss a percentage part payment before starting the work. This will help in securing the work as well as the funds.
There is no master key to deal with a wide variety of clients. It’s a kind of “on-the-job training”. You’ll learn as you work. But in any conditions, don’t get disheartened nor let it get into your head. Focus on your core skills and evolve. Sooner or later, you’ll acquire one of the most important skills required for each and every freelancer – that is “dealing with clients”.
All the best!
Stay Safe.
