Dealing with scope creep is a constant battle. A client just asked for extra work halfway through a project. I’m torn between maintaining good relations and fair compensation.
How do others handle these mid-project changes? Curious about different approaches to pricing and communication in these situations.
I handle this by being upfront about changes. When a client asks for extra work, I pause and discuss it.
I explain how it impacts the timeline and cost. Then I send a quick revised quote. If they agree, great. If not, we stick to the original plan.
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and keeps the project on track.
Man, I’ve been in this spot so many times. It’s a tough one.
Here’s what I do:
For the small stuff, I usually just do it. Keeps the client happy and the project moving.
But for bigger changes? That’s different.
I’ll stop what I’m doing and chat with the client. Explain how it affects the timeline and budget. Then I whip up a quick add-on quote.
Sometimes clients push back. That’s when I remind them about our original deal. I might throw in a small freebie to keep things smooth, but I make it clear it’s a one-time thing.
The key is to deal with it fast. The longer you wait, the messier it gets.
Oh, and I started adding a bit about change fees in my contracts. Helps set expectations from the get-go.
Been there, done that. These situations are tricky.
Here’s what works for me: I keep a buffer in my initial quotes for small changes. Anything beyond that, I explain it’ll affect the timeline and cost.
I usually say something like, ‘Sure, we can add that. It’ll take X more hours and cost Y extra. Want me to send over a quick update to the invoice?’
Most clients get it. If they push back, I remind them of our original agreement. Sometimes I’ll throw in a small freebie to keep things smooth, but I’m clear it’s a one-time thing.
Key is to address it right away. The longer you wait, the messier it gets.
Also, I started adding a clause in my contracts about change fees. Helps set expectations from the start.
Dunno about fancy stuff. I just say more work means more money. Folks usually get it.
I just tell 'em straight up. More work means more cash. If they don’t like it, tough luck. Gotta pay the bills somehow. Ain’t no one getting free repairs from me.
Simple. Stop the job, have a chat about the new work, and send a change order. Lay out what’s different, how long it’ll take, and what it’ll cost. Get it signed before you lift a finger on the extra stuff.
Don’t do freebies. It sets a bad precedent and eats into your profits. If they balk, remind them it’s outside the original agreement. Be firm but fair.
Keep good records of all changes. It’ll save you headaches down the line if there’s ever a dispute about what was agreed on.