In the past week or so I have encountered two problems with clients (both from DigitalPoint) and I'm interested in what everyone else thinks and whether or not they have had similar experiences. I really am at a loss as what to do next. Client 1 Hired me to design & code a website. Offered to pay in 3 installments, one deposit, one payment after the work had been completed and the final payment after he had received the deliverables. As the client was willing to pay a deposit I agreed to take on the work. I proceeded to design & code the website, communicating with the client throughout the process, but as soon as the client got his hands on the deliverables, hasn't been seen since. He has been ignoring my emails, PMs and the reminders from PayPal for the requested payment. He has however, had time to regularly use DigitalPoint. Client 2 Hired me to design a layout for his new dating site. I communicated with him throughout the process, making a number of alterations and amendments. In the end we went through 4 different drafts until we reached a design that he was happy with. I request payment and he asks me to wait 24 hours so that he can speak with his "webmaster". Reluctantly, I agree. The client now refuses to compensate me for my time because "it's no longer what i want". Great. What now? Obviously I am reluctant to use the iTrader Feedback system as I am certain that they will reciprocate. I value my unblemished reputation and my excellent iTrader so naturally I do not want it tarnished. Your thoughts, suggestions and opinions would be appreciated. Cheers - Matt
In my opinion if you don't leave negative iTrader, they'll SCAM other members. So dare and leave them iTrader. Also explain everything in appropriate thread, so if they leave you negative iTrader other members can see the fact, you can link to this thread too. personally when see a negative iTrader, I go to the thread and look for the reason. Don't worry, nothing will happen. if these 2 clients do not reply to your posts and just leave you - iTrader, other members can easily find out you're right. I hate these scammers. We should kick them out Cheers
Rule # 1: Sign a contract for all work you are being hired to do. Define your deliverables in the document, the time duration to complete the project, the price of the project and the projected payment plan agreed upon by both parties. Otherwise you leave yourself to be bit in the ass. As to leaving feedback on iTrader, go ahead and post the truth. Don't tell a long story, simple state something like "Client failed to uphold their end of the work agreement. Would not do business with again." They may very well retaliate and leave you some feedback, but don't worry about your "unblemished" profile. You being relaxed and flexible and trying to bend to your clients is what got you in this position in the first place. Lay your foot down, get paid what you deserve.
Matt - did you actually receive the deposit in the first case? In other words, did you obtain these funds before moving forward?
Thank you all for your input, much appreciated. @ Keywordsandcopy - Yes, and I also received the second payment. It's just the third and final payment I haven't received. - Matt