As an entrepreneur, it is fairly easy to get sucked into taking on a client that isn’t the greatest, especially if you’re just starting out. However, I have learned from experience that not every gig is worth it.
According to Entrepreneur.com, there are 5 distinct types of potential clients that you should avoid like the plague. Sometimes they don’t show their spots until after you’ve accepted the gig, but more often than not you will know who you’re dealing with at the first point of contact.
The Stiffer
One with a perpetual cash flow problem, this person will do all they can to avoid paying you for your time/services. Everything is fine and dandy until the invoice is sent.
The Abuser
This person has no respect for you: expecting deep discounts, cancelling meetings at the last minute, paying late, etc. When it’s all said and done, the amount of energy time and stress spent on their project will not be worth the paltry pay.
The Moocher
This is the person that wants your time & services for free, as if the honor of working for/with them is worth more than monetary compensation. There is a time and place for pro-bono work, but that is a decision that should be yours, not theirs.
Mr./Ms. Clueless
This person has absolutely no idea what they want, yet expects you to create exactly what they need on little to no information. Their mind can be swayed at any moment, which doesn’t help if you’ve already run with their last fleeting idea.
Mr./Ms. Unreliable
This person refuses to provide you with the necessary information needed to complete the gig… if you can even reach them at all.
