It’s Okay To Refuse A Client
Every now and again, as freelance writers, we run into clients we simply don’t want to work with. Maybe we’ve written for them before and the project didn’t go well. Or maybe the writing project went well, but we were left with an uneasy feeling. Maybe we can do what they want, but we find it boring, or it conflicts with our own values.
The reasons don’t matter! As freelance writers we have the right to say ‘no’ to any client at any time. We don’t even have to give a reason. Oh, it may make sense to say something like “I don’t have the time right now,” or we can be blunt and just say “I don’t want to work with you.” Or, if we don’t want to burn bridges, maybe we can refer them to another writer or suggest they post on CraigsList.
Part of the joy of freelancing is being able to control our career, and that includes who we work with. Listen to your heart, your instincts and know there are always more clients out there – you can refuse a client now and again without doing any damage to your career at all.
Write well, and often,
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POSTED IN: The Kitchen Sink
1 opinion for It’s Okay To Refuse A Client
allan
Dec 19, 2005 at 1:15 am
It is quite liberating to say no.
If the client is a real pill, recommend they visit a competitor.
Back when I was in sales, I kept competitor’s business cards for just that purpose.
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