Tell us if this situation sounds familiar to you: your customer doesn't know what he wants, but he wants it now, he wants it at a good price and he wants it to be of high quality. Yes, we feel you... As great as freelancing is for the most part, it also tends to be more demanding - especially if you can't discern client red flags.
I'm sure you're looking forward to being your own boss, working flexible hours and creating a customized work schedule that's right for you. However, these benefits depend on being able to build good relationships with your clients. Let's look at the 8 biggest client "red flags" you should avoid.
They are asking for free samples
This is one of the most common customer red flags. You may think a free sample is justified - and sometimes it is - because the client needs to know your level of expertise and skill. But if they've already seen your portfolio, a free sample is unnecessary.
Your portfolio is proof of your skills and successful collaboration with other clients. If they still insist on a free sample, they are likely to be intent on using, selling or even modifying your work without your consent and without paying you. Remember, a sample is only a hint of your service, not the full service.
They expect you to be available 24/7
People are choosing to become freelancers because they want to work on their own terms. A big part of that is working at the time that's most convenient for you, which means having a flexible schedule instead of a fixed eight-hour shift.
That way, you can spend more time with your loved ones and do things you like. A client who hires a freelancer like you should do so knowing that you won't always be available according to their own business hours.
They compare you with other freelancers
This is one of the worst customer red flags — and it's even sadder when you realize how common it is. Bad clients will compare you to others, often to justify their unreasonable demands and expectations of your prices.
They'll say things like "we hired someone last time who did it for less money", but they won't mention that they may have forgotten to follow the style guide and ruined the whole project. Or, "We can find someone on Upwork who has more experience," but they won't mention how they can't "afford" them.
Expect unlimited reviews free of charge
As a freelancer you charge for your services, not your time. This means that every hour you spend reviewing old work is an hour you "waste" without choosing a new project that might make you more money.
Of course a number of reviews is expected, but if your client expects unlimited reviews from you, that's a clear sign. Be clear about the number of reviews you allow your clients, and about additional charges for additional reviews beyond that limit.
Not paying on time
No special explanation is needed for this one. Good customers will respect the due date on your invoice and pay you on time, as agreed. Conversely, bad customers will not respect the due date and you will have to remind them repeatedly every time it's time to pay.
If you don't trust the client, it's a good idea to get a part of the payment upfront - an advance payment - before you even start implementing the project. That way, you'll have peace of mind and a sense of security. You can focus more time and energy on the project itself, rather than trying to get the client to pay after you've completed your work together.
They make unreasonable criticism
Every freelancer knows how important customers' feedback is, but there is a tactile line between good and bad feedback. Good feedback is specific, relevant, results-oriented, professional and includes helpful suggestions.
Bad feedback is vague, confusing, filled with irrational criticism, lacks suggestions and can even reach a personal level, making it seem "threatening". To these clients from us is a strict "no", as they not only violate professional decorum, but it is impossible for anyone to do business with them.
They refuse to sign a contract
Signing a contract is often a scary thing for both you and your client. However, it is something important because it ensures that the interests of both parties are protected. This helps resolve conflicts in the future and adds clarity to the relationship.
When choosing a small project, it is understandable not to want to get involved with contracts. But for larger and more complex projects, it's best to have a written contract signed by both parties. If the client refuses to do so, it might be best to walk away and look for other partnerships.
They do not make their expectations clear
The quality of a service is determined by the accuracy with which it fulfils the expectations of the buyer. But to do this, those expectations must first be clear. Some customers give vague descriptions of their requirements and expect you to find your way through the fog.
The only certainty is that you can't achieve your goal if you don't even know who it is. It's always a good idea to ask the customer to quantify their expectations so you know exactly what they want you to offer.
