How to Deal with Unreasonable Clients and Get Paid Faster as a Freelancer or Service Professional
Learn how to set boundaries, automate payments, and avoid common pitfalls that cost you time and money when dealing with difficult clients.
You've spent hours crafting a proposal, and the client finally agrees to the project. But when it's time to pay, they suddenly develop cold feet, or worse, try to negotiate the price after you've already completed the work. You're left feeling frustrated and underpaid. This post will show you how to deal with unreasonable clients and get paid faster with the help of Becflow.
Why this keeps happening
The problem lies in the lack of clear communication, unspoken expectations, and a lack of a solid payment plan. Without a deposit system, clients may be more likely to cancel or delay payments. Additionally, not having a contract in place can lead to disputes over scope, timeline, and payment terms. Invoicing too late can also lead to delayed payments and a longer payment cycle.
Real example
Take Sarah, a freelance writer who was hired to write a 1,000-word article for a client. The client paid a deposit upfront, but then asked Sarah to make multiple revisions, pushing the deadline back and delaying the final payment. Sarah ended up waiting for three weeks to receive the remaining balance, which was already past due. This experience left Sarah feeling frustrated and questioning her pricing strategy.
The habits that fix this permanently
These are the non-negotiables for getting paid reliably in your profession:
How to implement this step by step
Step 1: Set Clear Expectations
When discussing a project with a client, make sure to clearly outline the scope, timeline, and payment terms. Use language that is easy to understand and avoid ambiguity. For example, 'The project will be completed within 2 weeks, and payment will be due upon completion. A 50% deposit is required upfront, with the remaining balance due within 30 days.' Be sure to get the client's agreement in writing, either via email or a contract.
Step 2: Use a Deposit System
A deposit system can help secure payments upfront and reduce the risk of no-shows. Consider requiring a 20-50% deposit upfront, with the remaining balance due upon completion. This will give you a buffer in case the client cancels or delays payments. For example, 'A 20% deposit is required upfront, with the remaining balance due within 30 days upon completion.'
Step 3: Invoicing Promptly
Invoicing too late can lead to delayed payments, so make sure to send invoices promptly after completing work. Consider using a tool like Becflow to automate invoicing and reminders. For example, 'I will send you an invoice within 24 hours of completing the project, which will be due within 30 days.'
Step 4: Use a Contract
A contract can help outline the scope, timeline, and payment terms, and have clients sign it before starting work. This will help prevent disputes and ensure that both parties are on the same page. Consider using a contract template that outlines the scope, timeline, payment terms, and cancellation policies. For example, 'The contract outlines the scope, timeline, and payment terms, and requires the client to sign and return it before starting work.'
Step 5: Automate Payment Reminders
Automating payment reminders and follow-ups can reduce the likelihood of delayed payments and disputes. Consider using a tool like Becflow to automate payment reminders and follow-ups. For example, 'I will send you a reminder 7 days prior to the payment due date, and a final reminder 3 days prior to the due date.'
The Becflow solution
Becflow helps you deal with unreasonable clients and get paid faster by automating payment reminders and follow-ups. With our AI-powered contracts, you can create and send contracts to clients in minutes. Plus, our payment links make it easy to collect payments and track invoicing. Sign up for Becflow today and start getting paid faster.
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