The Golden Pencil: The Freelance Writer’s Resource

Writing Clients Come and Go

by Anne Wayman on January 25th, 2006

Yesterday I told a friend I needed some time off. It may have been a case of “be careful what you pray for” because later that day I got notice that a blog client had cancelled their contract. The day before, a ghostwriting client and I parted ways.

It’s tempting to panic because that represents a significant portion of my ongoing freelance writing income. But, as always, there are some other truths as well. I wasn’t enjoying the blogging contract much – I kept feeling pressured and like I wasn’t totally clear on what they wanted. And I hadn’t been able to do what the ghostwriting client wanted – mostly because he wasn’t clear. He got clear, partly or even mostly as a result of my questions and has decided to do it himself.

Yet another truth is I’m delighted to be out from under both – notice my words… neither gig was working well. No blame, we just weren’t a real match.

Still another truth: clients come and go. I plan to spend the next couple of days at least redefining what I’m doing, where I want to go, and how to get there… and I’m going to spend some time just being, and maybe take in an art museum, and do a better job with the pottery display I need for Sunday… more time for me.

I have absolutely no idea exactly how I’ll replace that income, but I always do… somehow it always works out. In fact, I’m willing to bet I come out better than I was.

Write well and often,

Someone on our forum asked about contracts and letters of intent. Here’s a letter of intent I used with one client.

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