As a freelance writer managing multiple projects, establishing clear deadlines with clients is crucial, even when they initially claim to be in no rush. The statement “I am in no hurry for these” can quickly turn into an urgent “are you done with the articles?” It’s vital to avoid the embarrassment of assuming a project can be delayed, only to find the client needs it immediately.
To mitigate this, I proactively request a specific timeline upon accepting a project. This includes deadlines for receiving proofs and for the client returning reworked articles, particularly when the final copy deadline is tight. No one wants to face a frantic “where is my finished copy?!” question, especially if the delay is on their end. Regardless of the cause, the responsibility often falls on the writer if any issues arise.
Fortunately, I usually begin work on assignments as soon as they are accepted. My process typically involves starting with research, followed by creating a detailed outline. Once the outline is satisfactory, I draft a rough version and then finalize the copy. Breaks are incorporated between these steps to gather additional information, clear my mind, or address other commitments.
Consequently, if I receive an urgent request for the completed project, I can usually provide at least a portion of the work promptly. Given that agreed-upon deadlines may shift unexpectedly, my ability to handle these demands effectively reflects my professionalism and client relationship skills.