By Brian Konradt
Some clients are just plain difficult to work with. It's not your fault, but it becomes your problem. Have you met the "client from hell" yet? No? One day you will. He pushes for unreasonable deadlines, communicates poorly as to what needs to be done, and vents his anger and frustration out on you if a job isn't up to his standards. ("Rewrites" or "redos" do not exist with this type of client - he expects perfect completion on the first shot.)
When I know I am dealing with a difficult client, I charge more. I have every right to, and so do you. I call this the Frustration Fee. It's better than turning down a project that will pay your next bill; besides, dealing with irate, difficult clients who put you through hell can be a great experience.
How much more should you charge for your services? It depends on the situation, and what you feel like charging. Some freelancers charge an additional $5-$25 per hour or add a fixed percent - like 20% - to the total bill. Here's when you should charge the Frustration Fee:
. A client for whom you already have done an assignment or project and you know he or she is difficult to please.. A client who wants you to redo another freelancer's work because the client decides it's "unsuitable."
. A client who pushes for unreasonable deadlines. If you're going to be up nights working on a project and popping Advil, you better make the client pay for your extra stress and effort.
. A client who needs you for a project immediately - but you already have exceeded your workload. Make the client pay more if you have to find time or work at odd hours of the day.
The Frustration Fee is supposed to help vent your frustration and soothe your stress. As I always say: Extra pay can make your day more enjoyable. Instead of calling it the Frustration Fee, maybe I should rename it to the "Client Accommodation Fee" - after all, a freelance business ought to be built with the client first in mind.
Brian Konradt is a former freelance copywriter and graphic designer, and founder of FreelanceWriting.Com (http://www.freelancewriting.com), a free website dedicated to help writers master the business and creative sides of freelance writing.
