Shocking, right? We all have programmed to think that whatever the client says – the client is always right. Right? Well…I am not that sure anymore. I start to feel a bit like Martin Luther. How about a project that should easily be completed in 3 weeks keeps on dragging for a long time. How does 4 years sound? Is the client still right or are you just plainly too nice (queue “stupid”, “sucker” and other self demeaning words) to accept the fact that the client is not Alpha & Omega?

Here are some pointers that can help you spot a client who can drag you down into the deeps of a perpetual “Ground Hog’s Day”:

• I want it all for nothing:
  If the client asks for everything under the sun, including the moon, the stars and their light and points out that he or she has a minuscule budget to deal with then run as fast and far as you can. Do not try to serve champagne to folks with beer money. They will drag you into a downward spiral of requests, amendments to the initial requests, changes, payment withholding and other “fun” stuff, not to mention the fact that the whole project will take forever.
• They know what they want but have no idea what they are asking for
  Stay away from those who do not have a plan. It’s funny how many times I hear:”I just need a website. Can you do it and how much does it cost?”. I usually just say: “Have a nice day”.
• A Signed Contract keeps you out of courts
  If everything goes well during the “discovery” process, make sure you put together a contract. Outline the communication procedure, dead-lines, payment schedule and sign off terms for each milestone. Most importantly have a signed copy dropped off with the client and keep the original in your designated folder for that client. You will return to it several times. If it’s more than 3 times, start discussing the transition of the project to someone else. Be nice about it but firm.
• Time is of the essence. Especially yours.
  If the project’s completion period did not include several birthday parties of your own, or your client’s for that matter, it’s time to fire the client. Of course, this is true only when the client is the one not sending you the information to complete the project even when you pointed it out at least 3 times. If the time drags on because of you, well – you are just lazy and you should be ashamed of yourself.

I am sure there are more – but for now, these should be sufficient to help you deal with some damaging clients and if I helped in any way through these bullet points, it would be nice to hear from you.

 Claudiu Geanta is a serial entrepreneur and founder of Design by Satori Inc. & Satori CG Inc.. He helps businesses promote their presence on and off line. He is also an accomplished web designer, book writer and photographer. You can follow him on Twitter.
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