Common Writer – Client Problems
As a freelance writer, you are responsible for everything, including customer service. This means that if a client has a problem with your work, you are the one that is going to have to handle the situation. Even if you are a great freelance writer who tries to do everything right, you are going to have disagreements with clients from time to time.
Here are five of the most common freelance writer – client disagreements. While you will want to attempt to avoid these issues, sometimes it is not possible.
1. Not every client will like the work that you complete. While I have a pretty high success rate in this area, there have been times when a client tells me my work is unacceptable. This is something that freelance writers have to deal with all the time. If this happens to you, have thick skin and be the bigger person. You never want to argue with a client. Instead, attempt to find a resolution.
2. To go along with number one, either you or your client will act in an offensive manner. One thing that I have found out is that you need to be careful when composing emails. The way that something looks to you on the screen may not be the way that a client takes it. You must choose your words carefully as to avoid this issue.
3. You miss a deadline because of what you think is a good excuse. Unfortunately, your client may not be forgiving even if you have a good excuse for why you had to push back a deadline. This is why I always try to stay ahead of my work by a couple of days.
4. A miscommunication or misinterpretation can lead to major problems. For instance, a client may not understand what you are telling them about a certain aspect of a project; instead, they assume. In the end, this misinterpretation is put on you. To avoid this, make sure that every detail of each project is clear and in its proper place.
5. Some people simply don’t get along with each other! This is not new to the world. There are going to be times when your personality does not match the person you are working with. While this can make for a miserable relationship, do your best to complete the job on time and without disrespecting anyone.
Freelance writers can try hard to avoid these issues, but it is not always possible. If you are faced with a problem, the best thing you can do is to work with the client until you find a mutually acceptable solution.
