Contracts are tricky. I’ve had clients dispute invoices because they misunderstood what was included. Now I’m extra careful about spelling out every detail, but it feels like overkill sometimes.
Anyone else struggle with finding the right balance in contracts? How specific do you get without scaring clients away?
I just use a basic form. List the job, price, and when I’ll be there. No fancy stuff.
If they don’t pay, I don’t come back. Simple as that.
Been there, done that with contract headaches. Here’s what I do now:
I keep a master list of common services. When a new job comes in, I pull what’s needed and tweak it.
Each service gets its own section. I write out exactly what I’ll do, how many revisions they get, and when I’ll deliver.
At the bottom, I have a clear payment schedule. Half up front, half on delivery usually. And I spell out late fees.
Before signing, I walk through it with the client on a call. I make them repeat back the key points. Cuts down on ‘I didn’t know that’ later.
It takes more time upfront, but I haven’t had an unpaid invoice in ages. And clients actually like knowing exactly what they’re getting.
Don’t overthink it. Clear language, specific details, and a quick chat. That’s all you need.
Contracts? I just shake hands and do the job.
Get paid when it’s done. No paperwork needed.
Keep it simple. List out exactly what they’re getting and what they’re not. No fancy legal talk. I use a one-page breakdown with bullet points. Anything more and clients zone out.
Make them initial each section. Shows they’ve read it. If there’s confusion later, point to their initials.
Always include your payment terms. Net 30, late fees, all that. No surprises when it’s time to pay.
Do a quick call to go over it all. Most issues come from folks not reading properly. A five-minute chat saves weeks of back-and-forth later.
Remember, a clear contract protects you both. It’s not about scaring them off. It’s about getting paid for your work.
I feel you on the contract struggle. It’s a constant balancing act. Here’s what’s worked for me:
I also started doing a quick video call to go over the contract together. Helps catch any misunderstandings early.
One trick: I ask the client to explain back to me what they think they’re getting. Often reveals gaps.
It’s extra work upfront, but saves so many headaches later. Fewer disputes, faster payments.
Still not perfect, but way better than the vague contracts I used to do.
I use a one-page contract with clear bullet points. No legal jargon.
List exactly what they’re getting and payment terms. Have them initial each section.
Quick call to review together. Catches misunderstandings early.
If they don’t pay, I don’t do more work. Simple and effective.