Sally:
Q: ”What’s the best way to turn down a client you don’t want? Sometimes, when discussing a project with a new client, or looking at the background files, I just know it’s a disaster just waiting to happen.
What’s the best way to say ‘no’ to a project and client I don’t want, while allowing everyone to save face? Just saying “I can’t take this on at this time”, has worked before. But I don’t want to appear too small, or unqualified. Or to imply that I might take this on later. Ideas?”
A: Funny thing, this. When clients turn us down with a ‘no, thanks’, we’re expected to take it like a pro and buck up.
But when we beg off, clients seem to get huffy and offended.
Which I never understood until I called in a house painter, who made one trip around my house and said, “I think I’ll pass.” WTF? You don’t like my shingles? It’s too much of a wreck? There’s some hidden problem I don’t know about?
Try this. And don’t worry about being self-deprecating. If you don’t want them as a client, it doesn’t matter.
“Gee. I wouldn’t be a good fit for this project. You’d be much better off with another writer. I’m sure you could find someone who could run with this.”
or. . .
“Now that I look at this, I’m definitely not the editor for this project. I imagine there are other writers who have a much better feel for this sort of work, and can do it justice. Sorry I can’t be more helpful.”
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More about this:
The Freelancer’s Right to Bail™
When to say no: A budget mismatch
I’m reminded of King Julian. He was the client I had to get rid of. In the days when I was a web developer he had me round to his house several times. I fixed his email, fixed his laptop, fixed his phone, but never did do much work on his website. In the end I’d had enough. Next time he asked, I told him I’d put up my rates (by a factor of four), I’d have to work remotely, and anyway I was so busy I wouldn’t be able to start anything new for a month. I never heard from him again. Result!!
Which also reminds me of a Big Red Flag for freelancers. Right at the beginning King J happened to mention that he’d tried lots of web developers but nobody had worked out. Initially I assumed that they must have all been useless. Now I know better.
Ah yes – that red flag. Had it once and still tried to do the job. Never again!
Out of Office | Speech Marks Translation
[...] Freelancery. I have talked about Walt’s advice before, and this time he gives his thoughts on turning down a client that you don’t want and approaching clients you don’t know (check out the tips from Chris Durban in the [...]
I have also always liked the idea of quoting a high rate for a project you don’t want. After all, unless there’s something materially wrong about the job (it’s illegal/unethical, you doubt the client is sincere about paying, etc) then your “not wanting to do it” level seems to be a factor of how much the client is willing to pay. Or at least that’s my experience. I suppose the danger is that word could get around that you charge ridiculous rates, but maybe if that word gets around in the same circles that “hell client” runs in, it’d be a net win. Iunno.
I will let people know that I have a busy schedule right now and will not be able to fit them in. If that’s the case, I will always try to find someone to recommend them on to, so they are not left flailing around looking for someone.
I have also been honest – a job has come my way, I’ve had a look at it and it is way too complex or demanding for the rate being offered. Then I’ll say so.
The problem with quoting a high rate is that sometimes they’ll say yes …