bad client

NO DEAL IS BETTER THAN A BAD DEAL

Put your hand up if you're sick to death of hearing the title of this blog post - *THROWS HAND INTO CEILING*

It's what we Brits have had to hear on loop in the run-up to the triggering of Article 50. With varying levels of inaccurate bollocks attached to it and a rotating door of grey, middle-class men saying it - the idea that we might walk away with 'no deal' in Brexit negotiations is being flirted with.

Now, this would be really, really bad. We'd fall back on WTO tariffs which would slap disastrous amounts of dosh and red-tape on our exports and just be generally shit for consumers and producers.

So when it comes to our nation's economy, no deal would probably be worse than a bad one.

But that got me thinking (dangerous).

When it comes to freelancing, no deal is often the best option.

There are so many warning signs when it comes to bad clients that I can usually tell after a couple of emails if someone's going to be difficult.

  • Being asked to do a free test article is one of them. Now, I don't mind offering if I think it's appropriate but it's a bit cheeky to ask. I'll happily share examples of my work, which I think give you a clear idea about my style. You wouldn't get in a taxi, ask to be driven somewhere and then MAYBE you'll pay for it if they get you there, so don't do it to writers.
  • People that clearly don't acknowledge the skill it takes to write well or the value it creates. If you think writing is easy and not worth paying good money for then we probs won't get on. I've worked hard to learn what it takes to write well, so demeaning that effort is offensive.
  • Not being prepared to pay a reasonable sum for writing is also a big warning sign. I need to eat, man. Research, writing and editing takes time, so respect the craft.
  • Expecting me to magically know all about your brand and have as much knowledge as you about it WITH NO INFORMATION PROVIDED. How on earth can I write good copy if you're not giving me what I need, brah? I know I said I'll write for you, but that doesn't mean I have to write your brief for you too. 

No deal, mate.