Freelance work can be exciting, but it is not without challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is recognizing red flags early to make informed decisions about potential jobs. Whether it’s unclear communication, rushed deadlines, or unclear contracts, these warning signs often indicate bigger issues in the future.
coming to you from Justin MottThis candid video walks through the common red flags freelancers encounter and offers practical advice for navigating them. He starts with the issue of the common email blast, where clients reach out to multiple freelancers with little personalization. These emails often suggest that clients focus on finding the cheapest option rather than the right person for the job. This then leads to a lack of contracts, which can lead to misunderstandings about deliverables, payment, and usage rights. Without a written agreement, you risk getting yourself into unnecessary complications.
Another red flag discussed by Mott is the absence of pre-production meetings. Even a brief call to clarify expectations can prevent creative mishaps and miscommunication. Jobs that skip this step often suffer from unclear instructions and disorganized execution. Rushed deadlines are another issue, with clients demanding quick turnaround without considering arrangements for planning, shooting and editing. This not only wastes your time but also creates unnecessary stress.
The video also explains how the lack of photography guidelines reflects poor composition. Without these, you may face problems during planning and shooting, which may affect the final product. Mott highlights the importance of clear communication, especially when it comes to tone and basic etiquette. Abusive or abruptly sent emails are often a sign of a strained customer relationship.
Mott provides strategies for dealing with these situations with an emphasis on preparation and documentation. Building extra time into your schedule to account for delays and putting all communications in writing can save you from misunderstandings. Documenting everything ensures you have a clear record of expectations and agreements. He advises not to rely on verbal agreements, as they can easily lead to disputes later. Watch the video above for complete details of MOT.
