Freelancing 109 : 5 points a client should always remember

As a freelancer, we might encounter some problems or issues with our clients. Of course, usually we don’t discuss it with our clients as we don’t want to lose contact with them or even leave us hanging and worse leave us unpaid. This is a bad practice but we need to face it that it is, i think, how it’s suppose to be. I wanted to write this because I myself have some problems with my clients and I admit that I can’t throw these in their faces. So, here it goes:

5 points a client should always remember

(a web designer/developer’s point of view)
designer/developer = freelancer

1. Email is still the best way to communicate

As a freelancer, I am not into voice chat. I would always prefer my client to use email or any other project management tool as I tend to forget what was discussed. As the client is explaining how they want it for their website, the freelancer is formulating solutions on how to translate it to codes and scripts. I prefer emails as all instructions are listed so i can still go back to check and double check the tasks assigned to me. The best is, you have an evidence if your client argued that you have missed something out. Cool huh?

2. Your freelancer understands it if they say they do

If you have instructions or instructions from your end-client which you think is a bit complicated to understand by your freelancer, then just simple ask your freelancer if he got the idea. Your freelancer understands it if they say they do. They know what to do and they will always ask you to clarify things if they need to. Don’t waste each others time by insisting to call your freelancer. This might come to the point that you will complicated the task after you speak to your freelancer. So trust your freelancer, period!

3. Always provide contracts

It is necessary for you to provide a written agreement between you and your freelancer. This will help both parties agree on the terms and it will make everything clear from day 1. This type of contract may not be the same as the usual office or company contract but just prepare one to make things clear on both you and your freelancer.

4. Don’t promise anything that you can’t comply

Your freelancer will always expect and take note of the things that you said. Like bonuses, raise, gift, vacation, etc. So, if you’re promising to give your freelancer a reward for doing such a great work then comply with it or you might end up with an unhappy freelancer. Worst, your freelancer will just disappear leaving all your projects behind. So be very careful.

5. Remember to pay on time

For the monthly basis, it is your obligation to pay your freelancer on time. It’s not the freelancer’s task to always remind you to pay them. Ok, one reminder would be enough but do keep it in mind always. Pay on time so that your freelancer will be happy. A happy freelancer can better optimize their work. If you think your freelancer is doing a great job, try to pay them 1 or 2 days in advance.

For the hourly basis, pay the invoice sent by your freelancer right away. Don’t keep your freelancer waiting as they have already did their part and have not kept you waiting.