How to Identify Problematic Clients (and turn down their projects).

There are many things you learn when you start freelancing at 19 with absolutely no business background and large amounts of baggage from trauma. This year I turn 37 so I had 18 years of experience figuring this out. Damn, talk about feeling old! Regardless of where you are on your own personal or business development path, these are applicable.

I also understand that for some, it may be difficult to accept these as even something you can do. I can understand that more than you know! I am here to tell you first off, that you 100% can.

ONE: Determine your Non-Negotiable Rates

There are plenty of people out there telling you that you need to work for free for exposure and experience. I’m here to tell you, they’re full of baloney. I agree that providing value will result in more work, but I don’t believe you should do work for a specific client/project for FREE. Why? There are SO many reasons and I will likely write a whole article about that another time for those that need it. Right now, I’m just going to tell you not to do it.

Anyone worth working with will be willing to pay because they value you and what you bring to the table.