I often talk to other writers about the various "Red Flags" to look for when dealing with prospective clients.
Contrary to popular belief, writers have the right to choose whom they work for just as much as clients have the right to choose which writer they hire.
Will you lose out on some money that way? Sure - but only from the ones that intended to pay you any way.
How can you know which ones those are? Well, you can't with any certainty, but one good indicator is their willingness (or lack thereof) to put up any money in advance.
Less experienced writers may be apprehensive when requesting upfront payment, but doing so will get easier with time - and experience. I promise.
You know you're trustworthy, but prospective clients have no way of knowing that before handing over their money. Some apprehension is understandable. But at the same time, prospective clients always have the option of not paying while writers never have the option of undoing work that's been done.
When clients pay some (if not all) of your fees upfront, it demonstrates a vested interest in the project and ensures that your interests are protected as well.
If a client balks at sending some form of payment upfront, it's best to cut your losses before they happen and move on to those who value your talent and are willing to pay for it.
Contrary to popular belief, writers have the right to choose whom they work for just as much as clients have the right to choose which writer they hire.
Will you lose out on some money that way? Sure - but only from the ones that intended to pay you any way.
How can you know which ones those are? Well, you can't with any certainty, but one good indicator is their willingness (or lack thereof) to put up any money in advance.
Less experienced writers may be apprehensive when requesting upfront payment, but doing so will get easier with time - and experience. I promise.
You know you're trustworthy, but prospective clients have no way of knowing that before handing over their money. Some apprehension is understandable. But at the same time, prospective clients always have the option of not paying while writers never have the option of undoing work that's been done.
When clients pay some (if not all) of your fees upfront, it demonstrates a vested interest in the project and ensures that your interests are protected as well.
If a client balks at sending some form of payment upfront, it's best to cut your losses before they happen and move on to those who value your talent and are willing to pay for it.