Comments on: Bad Freelance Deals (and how to spot them)

By: Paula Hendrickson

Paula Hendrickson — Tue, 04 May 2021 15:14:03 +0000

In reply to lwidmer. Yes. Do it. Gabriella is 100% right — if those people still approached you after that first fiasco, they didn't get the message. A polite buh-bye is in order.

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:58:50 +0000

I do what Gabriella does, and point out that we’re not a good fit. I’ve also started keeping a list of companies and individuals, because I’ve found people move to a different company or change the name of the company, but try to pull the same crap.

By: Cathy Miller

Cathy Miller — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:51:34 +0000

Gabriella, were we raised by the same mother? 😀 LOL! I feel the same way. I’d close the loop so they get the message loud and clear. And I don’t want to give them fuel for spreading the falsehood that I don’t respond to project queries.

This story made me think of another red flag I had a few years back. I received a referral from someone I had been networking with for years (and whose work I admire). The potential client felt the same way about that person and were very excited about the prospect of working together. Then the contract arrived.

They ignored mine and had this one jam-packed with all kinds of CA employer paranoia. This was pre-PRO Act and CA’s AB5 but clearly they did not understand the difference between independent contractor and employee. I red-lined the contract and never heard from them again. So be it.

By: lwidmer

lwidmer — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 12:13:49 +0000

I like that– a “polite” jerk to close the loop. Great thinking, Gabriella! I may do just that. Sounds like it may be necessary or these notes will keep coming, I suspect.

By: Gabriella

Gabriella — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 11:26:52 +0000

All true! Good for you.

Just me, I might feel like having a little bit of a last word there. I might respond with, “Thanks for reaching out. As I mentioned last time we were in touch, we’re not a good fit. Best of luck to you.”

I just feel the need to say in so many words: I saw what you did and won’t tolerate it.

If you don’t respond at all, they might think you were too busy, out of town.

Of course, with your experience, you do you. Just saying I’m a bit of a (polite) jerk and might close that loop. Haha!