In my post last week, we talked about the first 3 types of clients you may come across in your VA business. We carry on the list below with 3 more client types:
Don’t pay Ray
When you sign up new clients, you should get them to sign a contract before any work is completed to ensure that they agree to your terms and conditions. For retainer clients, they purchase hours in advance so it is easier to manage – you don’t do the work if they haven’t paid. However, what can you do for project PAYG clients when you have already spent time on their work? It is recommended that you get a deposit of 50% up front before starting any work and then you invoice them the balance on completion of the work and get payment before handing over the project.
You need to refer to the terms and conditions that you have created for your business and action what it says regarding non payment e.g. do you charge interest? At what stage do you refer it to a debt management company etc?
I strongly advise you to stop any work you are doing for your non paying Ray until they have cleared the outstanding amount – you can’t allow them to run up huge debts.
Moaning Minnie
You may come across some clients who are not happy with your work. Sometimes this can be a genuine concern because you have done something wrong – no problem, fix it and apologise.
However, some people aren’t happy regardless of what you do for them even when there is nothing wrong with the work. I suggest you stop working with these clients immediately as they will totally drain you and you will start to resent them for how they make you feel. Give them the notice that your contract states and move on – you deserve a lot better.
Know it all Paul
Most people know someone who tries to help and offer you advice. This is not normally a problem and can be very useful for you as you can learn from their experiences.
However, a Paul is someone who tells you how to run your business e.g. you should be doing this, I wouldn’t do that etc. Be firm with them and say thanks, but no thanks. If you want advice, you can always approach them and ask.
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