How to handle a difficult client?

[RedStringSoul]

It was bound to happen -- I found a great, longer term assignment that built on my previous expertise in IT. It seemed perfect. Until I started, that is. My client is difficult to communicate with. His emails are 2 sentences long, at best. If he doesn't like the work, he's critical but getting feedback about what is wrong is like pulling teeth.

I finished another piece for him over the weekend and then emailed him to let him know I'd finished but, as usual, needed him to review it to make sure it was okay. He doesn't answer for 3 days and then complains in an email that he was expecting us to do 2 - 3 pieces A DAY. My original bid was 1 piece with a 5 day turnaround and currently I'm doing 2 pieces with a 5 day turnaround. I could do 3 if he was more communicative!


He's not a nightmare client yet but god, this is annoying. This is the first time I've run into this type of client. I emailed him with notes on what he had requested me to change and then added this:

Regarding the 2-3 topics per day, the original proposal on [freelance site] stated that I can complete 1 tutorial a day with a 5 business day turnaround. At this point, I can do 1 tutorial in a 2 day turnaround and am able to complete 2 to 3 tutorials per week, pending draft approval and client communication. Please let me know if you wish to change these terms.

Did I come off too strong? Was this worded correctly?

[Dale Emery]

Regarding the 2-3 topics per day, the original proposal on [freelance site] stated that I can complete 1 tutorial a day with a 5 business day turnaround. At this point, I can do 1 tutorial in a 2 day turnaround and am able to complete 2 to 3 tutorials per week, pending draft approval and client communication. Please let me know if you wish to change these terms.

Did I come off too strong?

No. It seems to me like a reasonable tone.

Was this worded correctly?

Two changes to consider:

In the first sentence, the word can seems like the wrong word. I think the sentence is about permissions or requirements, and not abilities. Consider using a different word, especially given that you use can in a different way in the next sentence. Perhaps replace "stated that I can complete" with something like "requires that I complete" or "allows for me to complete".

In the last sentence, consider replacing change with renegotiate. You don't want the client to interpret your message as suggesting that he change the terms unilaterally. Renegotiate suggests that any changes will require a conversation.

Dale