Types of Clients and How to Deal with them
Freelancing and a regular work may be different in a lot of ways. One thing is common between them, however— you need to be able to effectively deal with a client at all times. Sure, you have got no boss, but fact is; you have a client that watches over your work and pays you according to the job done. Similar to dealing with a boss, clients are from all walks of life; hence, they require varied treatments. Below are the 4 most common types of clients you encounter in your freelance career. Read on in order to be able to identify which amongst is your current client and learn how to better deal with them.
THE ‘I-AM-ON-A-TIGHT-BUDGET’ CLIENT
Deciding to plunge into the waters of handling freelance jobs will definitely require you to learn the art of negotiation; clients are tasked to do the same. Clients are usually from the business sector and so they may be always a little on watch over how much they spend. Additionally, they also wanted to make sure that they get the most out of the money they invested on you.
Clients of this kind will usually set their budget expectations upfront. They are very clear of how much they plan to spend and what kind of work they expect from you, budget wise. These kinds of client require careful handling especially with regard to delivering quality work. Bear in mind that if you decide to agree with their terms, you should make sure that you are able to meet their requirements so as to keep a good record and reputation as a freelancer. A note of caution: Never bid below your standard or below the industry value of the work that they require done.
THE ‘I-AM-NOT-INTERESTED’ CLIENT
These are your busy clients. They are the ones who don’t communicate a lot to do constant follow ups on freelance jobs they need done. They have very little patience over your questions and will usually ask you to go beyond your support boundaries. Simply put; they are too busy to care and just wish you do your job the best way you can.
These kinds of client are a little frustrating to work with. Admit it! No matter how expert you are on your work; an input from them will still lighten your job. Additionally, some personal touch is always essential for you to arrive to what they will consider quality outputs.
These kinds of client are advantageous if you are working on a lot of projects at the same time; they can offer you flexibility by not always needing you to get in touch with them. They are fairly easy to deal with if you are able to identify them at the very start of the assignment— simply ask them of exactly what they wanted done and (if possible) ask them to at least set a schedule for a weekly follow up.
THE ‘I-WANT-TO-BE-INVOLVED’ CLIENT
They are the exact opposites of the ‘I-am-not-interested’ type of clients. They are very hands on and would always want to be involved in the project. They are very supportive yet meticulous on approving works. They can also cause you pressure and stress sometimes because of their presence and constant follow ups. Generally, however, they can be very good clients if dealt with well.
A client of this type is one that is both easy and not-easy to please. They are easy to please because you will know (will be constantly reminded of) their expectations and standards. The difficult part comes in when you are unable to deliver them with the work they expect. Since they are always around for support, they will surely expect you to deliver your best output at the end of the freelance job. The best way to deal with them is to be always pleasant as you can be and to be very attentive to details. Prevention is still better than cure, so make sure you really know the requirements of the project and that you qualify for it prior to applying. This way, you will be able to avoid unsatisfied customers who are serious about finding the best candidate for their freelance jobs.
THE ‘ALWAYS-VERY-GOOD’ CLIENT
The best amongst all the kinds of clients— they are easy to work with. They maintain a balance on watching over the project and keeping you motivated. They are very cheerful people. They are born leaders and are aware of the magic of constructive criticisms. Make sure to keep clients of this kind as they’ll surely make your freelancing career a lot enjoyable. Simply do your job the best way you can to give them what they deserve and you’ll surely be in for a work and play scenario in your freelance job.
A final note to make— no matter whoever your client is and to which category he may fall; always make sure to keep a professional relationship with him. It is never bad to try to extend your patience over some of their shortcomings as you surely have your own as well. After all, a freelance job is still similar to a regular work— it still requires you to be do best in your job and to be people oriented enough to be able to cope with any kind of situation— and client attitude— for that matter.
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