Does Your Eagerness Make You Vulnerable?
On a forum, a freelancer relates getting left out of the cold. Despite not being paid a single cent, he submitted many design drafts for a project, making changes as his client demanded. One day the project was called off, and the clients virtually vanished. So the victimized freelancer had nothing to show for his hard work.
I completely understand why the apparently young man jumped at the “opportunity.” His was probably aching to start using the skills he’s really passionate about, driven by youthful eagerness. Unfortunately, he didn’t realize he was being used until it was too late. It’s a textbook example of a guileless soul being taken advantage of.
Stories like this make me remember the phrase “half now, half later.” Not to mention the importance of being earnest about your agreements. Before starting a project, both parties’ expectations of each other must be clear. What are you and your client expected to deliver? Get that in writing or on record. And it’s reasonable to ask for some money down.
If a potential client balks at giving some money before seeing anything done, show that it’s in his best interest. His deposit compels the contract worker to start working on the project, lest he have to return deposit. Or worse, gain a reputation as someone who can’t meet his commitments despite getting paid.
It is possible to start working for clients immediately, based on verbal or “virtual” contract. But for their own sake, freelancers should only consider this when working with long-time or trusted clients. Because in the real world, it literally pays to make sure all your efforts will ultimately be worth it.
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POSTED IN: Great Advice, On Freelancing
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