The Right Time To Say "No" As A Professional Freelancer.

One of the most challenging - yet crucial - skills for freelancers to master is knowing when to refuse certain projects. Freelance job is unpredictable by its very nature. Planning on doing X amount of work that will earn Y amount of money is not always possible. As a result, it's only natural for us to want to take on any job that comes our way as independent contractors. Even while it's a good idea to work hard and maintain a low level of security, there are some situations in which it's OK to decline an offer. Here are a few typical situations.

Whenever A Payment Is Postponed Until "later"

Don't let yourself be drawn into this. See if you can come to an agreement where you receive, for instance, 25% of the payment upfront, even if new customers might be reluctant to pay you in full up front. Establish a contract in any scenario. Alternately, use a third-party platform to retain the payment securely until the job is finished. Unless it's a passion project or for a cause you support, avoid working for free. However, be sure to tell yourself that you are volunteering your time.

Whenever Unending Changes Are Demanded...

Or if the modifications procedure is not spelled out clearly. Once more, establish a contract with your client that outlines a reasonable modifications procedure.If you don't, especially if you've promised to labour for a specific payment, what could have once sounded like a sizable wage will reduce to a pittance.

When Customers Want Extras Repeatedly...

You've decided on a price and determined the terms of a project. However, your client keeps making new requests without paying for them. It's known as scope creep. To avoid it, become aware of it. When a customer requests additional, offer a price. Better still, be the first to mention that you'll need to be paid for any extra job you do. As a freelancer, never forget that time equals money. Don't give your customers free access to it.

Whenever You Are Just Too Busy...

Caution: Put the client's needs first. You can decline work from clients who are less important if your plate is already too full. However, you should never decline business from significant or ideal clients. When you're unable to refuse, consider hiring a virtual assistant to lighten the load.

When Your Pay Is Insufficient,

Again, there might be circumstances where working for less makes sense, such for a passion project. But nearly always, it will simply make things worse for you. To determine whether your prices are reasonable for the sector, consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Speak with other independent contractors. Make sure you're not getting paid too little or charging too little for your services by doing some research.

When Your Instinct says "No,"

Observe your gut feelings. Say no if a prospective client makes you feel dreadful. Keep in mind that you'll be communicating with clients a lot. Listen to yourself if you don't feel like you can trust him or her. But if the thought of freelancing alone fills you with dread, perhaps it's time for some career guidance.

When A Customer Is Unsure Of Their Needs...

and that you can read minds or find solutions to issues outside of your field of expertise. Your patience will be put to the test by this type of client. But before you say no, politely ask them to make changes to their proposal and then return to you.

When A Customer Plagiarises Your Work...

Some dishonest clients may arrange a meeting, listen to your ideas, and then put them into practise without ever hiring you or officially recognising you. Be cautious. Inquire carefully about what prospective customers require from you and request that they offer you a precise budget and proposal. Saying no will help your freelance work in the long run. Freelancers gain the respect of both existing and potential clients when they learn when to say "no." Additionally, you can always try advertising your skills on Fiverr if you're concerned about finding customers when you do need more work.

Do you work for yourself? Have you ever had success by declining tasks? How can you do that politely? Tell us in the remarks section below!

When and How to Say No as a Professional Freelancer