Getting Paid Means No Credit to New Clients UNLESS it’s a Major Company
MANY of us have been ripped off in the past. I can honestly say I have only had it happen to me twice in 28 years, but advanced technology should certainly make it easier for us to get our money these days.
There is NOTHING worse than completing the work than being lied to and misled about the check being in the mail etc.
The worst part is like a fool, you are waiting for the mailman for a check that the client KNOWS is not coming.
You can save yourself from this by doing a few simple things. First: Always have high esteem when it comes to your business.
By high esteem, I’m not saying “Arrogance” I mean believing in your business, knowing your VALUE, and having an appreciation for what you do. If you show signs of weakness, potential clients can see that, and they will take advantage.
Here are five tips for collecting your money in a timely fashion without chasing cash.
Ask for the Money Up Front
This is simply the best way to do it. However, you can’t blame them if they are suspicious and wonder if they will get what they have paid for. Nevertheless, that’s not for you to worry about, IF they came to you.
If you go to them, then this method may or may not work. Imagine you ask someone to support your business then give you the money before you do the work, that’s kind of an insult, and it looks like you are desperate for money. Treat each situation accordingly
Offer a SMALL Discount if they Pay Up Front
I would not give them more than a 10% discount. Keep in mind whatever you offer them is what they are going to expect each time
Tell them New Clients Have to Pay up Front
This is a good rule, but only if they come to you. If you go to them or if it’s a corporation, you should not expect to be paid upfront. You can offer independents a “new client discount” if they pay upfront.
Ask them if they use Paypal, Cashapp or Zelle
Technology is changing the face of business
(Thank God) now you don’t have to pay outrageous fees to have someone pay you with a credit card. You can just use a small device on PayPal called the PayPal Card Reader and charge them over your cell phone.
There is a small fee, but PayPal also offers pay by email and more features, and they don’t have to be a PayPal client. Did I mention I LOVE PayPal, Cashapp and Zelle?
If They are New Clients, they come to you, and they Can’t Pay upfront…
Don’t walk… RUN. And run as fast as you can. This is a sure sign you are about to get ripped off and you will be chasing money. That will disrupt the flow of your business. Avoid this at all costs.
They Come Back After Being a Slow Pay the Last Time?
Tell them you have to collect upfront. Remember, have esteem in your business. Your bill collectors do not want to wait to be paid after they provide a service, so why should you. You have obviously made a good impression on them if they come back. Now it’s their turn to show good faith for their mistakes. If they can’t pay upfront, at least get half or walk.
Avoid Small Talk Get Straight to Business
If someone comes to you for business, MAKE IT BUSINESS avoid small talk at all costs, you are a busy entrepreneur.
The small talk is a setup to ask for a MASSIVE discount or some kind of deal that’s gonna work more in THEIR favor. Don’t fall for it. If they can give you small talk to get the business, they will BS you when it comes time to pay too.