Writers need to update clients to keep them in the loop on progress and expected delivery date. Clients should do the same with service providers, letting them know dates when projects will begin or when they’ll need work done.
A writer has to schedule work and manage his or her time. Preparing for incoming work on a client’s word of an impending project means reserving time for the job. When the client specifically requests reserved time but ends up continually saying, “It’s coming; don’t worry,” the writer is caught. Worse, some clients promise start dates but keep putting the project off until the next day. That can sometimes make the writer feel that tomorrow never comes.
The writer can wait and hope that the promised start date of a project is the real one, but may end up unable to earn income while waiting for the client to give the go-ahead. The writer can work for other clients while waiting, but then the writer risks having a plate that’s too full when a project on hold gets a green light, landing on the writer’s desk – usually with a “high priority” label attached.
Clients need to provide a specific date on when a project will start and update service providers if that date changes. Doing so helps the writer manage his or her time and schedule work accordingly without being stuck waiting or losing other potential income.
Individuals who promise something but don’t keep their word risk two things: Losing their credibility and being without a writer when they need one. Many writers work on a first come, first serve basis. Clients who expect providers to drop everything to cater to them after making the provider wait aren’t being fair, and providers know this.
Always update the other party involved in a project. Keep them in the loop if there are changes to start dates or delivery dates. Be honest, too. If you said tomorrow, but you know that tomorrow isn’t going to be the day, say so.
Clients should respect the schedules of providers and the efforts it takes to manage a business as much as providers should respect the schedules and efforts of clients. Promise less and deliver more is a two-way street.
