The Writer’s Guide to Handling Scope Creep

So John hires you to write his website content. The next conversation goes something like this:

Oh by the way, could you check all the links to make sure they’re working?

Then maybe he adds this:

Oh, that survey on there is old. Could you write three more for me? Sorry, forgot to mention this was part of the job.

Then he may say this:

Thanks for the survey content. Just hang on to it and I’ll get you the login info for the site. Just post them at two-week intervals.

Welcome to scope creep.

John may not realize he’s doing it (or worse, he may), but he’s adding to the scope of the original project. Moreover, he’s doing it thinking he’s not paying any more for the additional work.

No, John. That’s call an employee.

A writer friend recently related a similar tale in which her client was expecting a lot more than just writing services. She’s more than adept at handling it, but not every writer is. The reason is simple:[bctt tweet=” Freelance writers want to please. And we’re hurting ourselves as a result. #freelancewriting” username=”LoriWidmer”]

So stop it already, okay?

Here’s how:

Have a tightly written contract.

Nothing saves your bacon (or your tofu) like the parameters of your project spelled out and signed for by both parties. It’s your safety net, and it’s what you’ll refer to should a client ask for one more thing.

Drop the emotion.

See, part of the problem is you’re thinking that client won’t like you if you push back. So instead, you do work you shouldn’t be doing and resent the hell out of both the client and yourself. Who care if that client likes you? This is a business transaction, not a date. They need to abide by the agreement you’ve signed together.

Polish your “here’s my extra charge for that” language.

If it’s work you could do and want to do, don’t just do it. Charge for it. Let the client know at the time they request it that the extra charge is coming. “Sounds like a sensible addendum to the project. Here’s my fee for that portion” ought to do nicely.

Beg off.

“No, I can’t” is a valid a response for repeat offenders. No lengthy explanation, no need to go into excuse mode. Just “No, I can’t.” I had a case recently in which I had to tell the potential client it wasn’t going to work for me. I didn’t make excuses — I thanked them for their time and told them “I’m afraid I’ll have to pass.” If you’re nervous that they’ll respond badly, don’t be. Their lack of professional demeanor does not require any response from you. If you’ve said no and they start the guilt trips or name calling, you’ve dodged a bullet. And you don’t engage people who can’t behave like adults.

Writers, how has scope creep affected you? What methods do you use to deal with it?