Quote:
Originally Posted by LeelaCosgrove
Oh do I know this one.
So, regardless of what happens with this job - you need to think about your payment terms.
I work as a writer (not a copywriter, but similar situation).
My terms are - 100% upfront payment for new clients.
For everyone else - 50% upfront, 50% on completion of project.
NEVER EVER ... do work without some kind of payment in the first place.
If people break your 50% on completion, they go back to 100% up front.
I have fired clients for not adhering - as a soloist you simply can't afford to spend too much time following up. If clients won't pay, consider it a small price to pay to get rid of them.
In the meantime, everyone is right - issuing an invoice for 70 or 80% of the job isn't a bad idea.
HOWEVER ...
Have you CALLED the client?
I know it's hard ... as writers ... to move into that headspace - but it's a lot easier to ignore an email ... a phone call is way harder.
When you send the invoice, also follow up with a phone call.
Email has made it really easy for people to hide ... if you keep emailing him, you can kiss your money goodbye.
If, on the other hand, you call him - you are more likely to get a response.
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Hi Leela
That's really good advice thank you. I haven't ever had any issue with client payments in the past, so this is new territory for me. I think your terms make real sense and I will start this approach with my new clients. Did you ever have any issues with anyone not wanting to pay upfront because you hadn't worked with them before?
Oh and yes, you are so right about the email verses the phone scenario. I do fall into that rut, as I find email less invasive and I also like to have email records of correspondence held. But, I agree it's better to pick up the phone and be directional in matters like these.
Thanks very much.
Kind regards
Jay