For freelancers, clients come and go.
Some might have a steady stream of work for you, but many will offer short-term gigs.
With that said, you shouldnt overlook customer attrition rates altogether.
If your clients keep canceling contracts and projects prematurely, you might be doing something wrong.
In this article, well discuss some common reasons why freelancers lose clients.
Unlike full-time jobs, freelance clients wont train you.
Theyll expect you to have the necessary skills to start working right from the get-go.
Youll get limited guidance.
Clients will let you go if your output doesnt meet their quality standards.
Freelancers rarely get second chances.
Since quality work varies in definition, determine the factors your clients consider when assessing output.
Dont hesitate to request samples.
Just confirm not to copy samples outright.
No decent employer or company would tolerate copyright infringement and plagiarism.
Differences in Working Styles
People have varying work styles.
While some thrive working in isolation, others prefer brainstorming ideas with a team.
Theres no right or wrong way to work.
Employees can even aim for companies and employers that accommodate their work preferences.
Unfortunately, freelancers dont share the same freedom.
Similar to employees, clients and employers also have different work styles.
You cant expect them to share the same work habits as you.
On the contrary, you might have to adjust your work style according to their needs.
Its easy to overlook trivial nuances.
Changes With the Project Rates
As a freelancer, youre free to adjust your rates at any time.
Whether your clients will stay is a different question.
Clients also have budget plans.
Even if they genuinely like your work, they cant ignore budgetary constraints to accommodate your services.
Discuss and negotiate your new rates.
Just prepare a back-up plan on what to do should they reject you.
yo reach out to your current clients before increasing your rates.
Otherwise, they might get billed more than what they typically expect.
Frequent Disagreements or Conflicts
Disagreements between clients and freelancers arent uncommon.
However, if conflicts arise in almost every project, expect the client to cancel your contract soon.
Nobody, not even your clients, wants to work in toxic environments.
But you shouldnt feel bad if you lose an employer that constantly disagrees with you on several occasions.
Losing them might even benefit you.
Emails dont always convey the message.
Some tasks will require you and your client to collaborate over instant chat or video calls.
Unfortunately, not everyone can work in different time zones.
The reality is that people have varying productive hours.
Lets say the client is open to negotiation.
As for meetings, automate them usingthe best appointment-scheduling appslike Calendly or SimplyBook.me.
Lapsed Deadlines and Missed Quotas
Freelancers have a reputation for missing project deadlines.
Some companies even avoid freelancers altogether if they cant risk taking on workflow uncertainties.
Admittedly, many freelancers struggle with late submissions.
You have to respect other peoples time.
Take charge of your workday by managing your daily duties and active projects.
Dont just dump random items on your to-do list.
Company or Agency Reorganization
just understand that you arent always at fault when clients leave.
Your clients have their respective agendas.
Lets say you write sales emails for a SaaS brand.
In these instances, its best to move on to other projects quickly.
Just dont burn bridges.
Ensure your clients that youll welcome them if they need your services again.
Whatever project you take on, give it your all.
Your clients will keep coming back to you if you consistently deliver impressive, high-quality output.
After all, you’ve got the option to only minimize customer attrition rates to an extent.
