I’ve started keeping detailed records of completed projects, including timelines and client interactions. It’s surprising how often this data helps me spot patterns with late payments. Anyone else find their project logs useful for more than just portfolio building?
tracking completed services for future reference often gives me clues about handling unpaid invoices
Yep, those project logs are lifesavers. I’ve found them super useful for more than just chasing payments.
They help me:
- Spot red flags with clients early on
- Back up my work if there’s ever a dispute
- Figure out which projects are actually worth my time
I use a simple spreadsheet to track:
- Project details
- Key dates
- Communication highlights
- Payment info
It takes a bit of extra time, but it’s saved my butt more than once. Plus, it’s great for looking back and seeing how far I’ve come as a freelancer.
Just remember to keep it updated regularly. Future you will thank you when a client tries to pull something shady six months down the line.
Nah I don’t bother with all that.
Just do the job and send the bill.
I just keep a basic list of jobs and payments. Nothing fancy. Sometimes it helps when someone forgets to pay. But mostly I just send the bill and move on to the next job.
Definitely. Those logs are gold for handling payment issues.
I use them to spot clients who always pay late. It helps me decide if I want to work with them again.
The records also come in handy if there’s ever a dispute about what work was done. It’s saved me a few times when a client tried to argue about the invoice.
Totally get where you’re coming from. I started doing this a few years back and it’s been a game-changer.
My project logs have become a goldmine for dealing with unpaid invoices. I noticed some clients always pay late after rush jobs, so now I ask for deposits on those.
The logs also help me prove work was done when there are disputes. Once, a client claimed we never finished a project. I pulled up the log with all our email exchanges and sign-offs. Invoice paid the next day.
I use these records to spot which types of projects tend to have payment issues too. Helps me decide which jobs to take on or avoid.
Just make sure you’re consistent with your logging. It’s a pain at first, but becomes second nature and pays off big time.
Project logs are more than just paperwork. They’re your best defense against payment headaches. I’ve been keeping detailed records for years. They show exactly what was done, when, and what was agreed. When a client gets fussy about an invoice, I pull out the log. It shuts down arguments fast. These records also help spot trouble clients. If someone’s always late paying, the logs show it. I either drop them or change my terms. One tip: note down all conversations, even quick calls. You’d be surprised how often a casual chat becomes important later. Don’t overcomplicate it. A simple spreadsheet works fine. Just be consistent and update it regularly.