Persistence when Seeking Freelance Writing Payment
Anytime I take on a new client, I wonder whether or not they will pay me when the time comes. While there are some measures that you can take in order to ensure payment, you never know what a client is going to do down the line.
Keep this in mind: persistence is the key to receiving payment from a freelance writing client that is attempting to dodge you. When it comes down to it, if you forget about the payment the client will probably do the same. But if you stay on top of them, you will more than likely get what is owed to you in the end.
What does it mean to stay persistent? How can I do this without being overbearing? First and foremost, you need to realize that this should be handled on a case by case basis. With some clients, I never have to remind them to pay me; even the first time. They know what they owe me, and send it upon completion. On the other side of things, some clients need a push from time to time. You need to consider when you submitted your invoice, as well as how you will be paid in order to determine when to follow up. For instance, if you are planning on receiving payment by check, you will want to wait a few weeks. Of course, with a PayPal payment you can receive funds instantly. In this case, you may want to check up with a client after five to seven days.
Make sure that you do not accuse the client of nonpayment before you give them a chance. Remember, not everybody pays invoices on a daily basis. I work with many large companies that only send payment once per month. If you are worried about payment, you may want to ask the client their policy. In most cases, this will ease your mind.
In rare cases when a couple months go by, you need to start checking in with the client on a more regular basis. If you are lucky this will never happen because waiting months for payment can be difficult. Again, if the client is being responsive make sure you ask them for a clear cut answer on when your payment will arrive. If they are ignoring you altogether, you will want to get creative. Try to send emails, call on the phone, and even rely on snail mail.
All in all, if you complete a freelance writing project you are entitled to the agreed upon payment. While most people are honest and prompt when it comes to sending payment, there will always be those who are a bit behind. When dealing with these clients, make sure you are persistent until you receive your funds.Â
