Some clients just don’t deserve you . I mean that. Sometimes they’re just overly
demanding, difficult, or flat out stressful, and it’s ok to admit that. When you’re employed, you probably have to tough that situation out (or quit and sacrifice 100% of your income), but as a freelancer, it’s almost certain there’s another client just around the corner and you don’t have to risk it all to find out.
Too many of us go into business like we’re going into battle…thinking that scars and pain are part of what should be expected. While I’ll be the first
to tell you that going out on your own as a freelancer does require sacrifice and discomfort, there’s a limit.
Sometimes the stress and dread just isn’t worth it and it’s ok to admit that. You’re freelancing so that you have the opportunity to choose how to engage with your work…and sometimes it’s time to act on that.
This is harder when you first start out, but as you develop a palate for your clients and learn the work and
personalities you really enjoy, identifying these problem clients won’t be as hard.
This is why
your bi-annual self-assessment includes questions about your favorite and least favorite clients. Having to answer those questions helps you develop a sense of taste that will help you shape your best freelance business
possible.
Today though, I want you to do a short exercise, even if it’s just in your head.
Name 3 deal-breakers that would make you consider letting a client go. That could be anything from excessively late payment (like Ebony) to calling on weekends (like one of my former clients), to just being too disorganized.
You don’t have to take action right now, but just start practicing so that you’re aware when your lines have
been crossed.
Megan
P.S. Here are the Academy resources that you’ll want to check out this month…