In order to make a comfortable living doing what they love, many freelance writers work for multiple clients at once. This entails keeping track of a variety of assignments and working against numerous deadlines. In light of how hard dedicated freelancers work, it makes sense for them to be compensated for their efforts in an expedient fashion. Unfortunately, disorganization and poor client communication can make this more difficult than it needs to be. Writers interested in collecting payment for their work in a timely manner can do so with the help of the following pointers.

Set Regular Payment Dates

If there are clients you work with on a consistent basis, consider setting up regular payment dates to expedite the compensation process. This typically entails providing your client with bank account and/or PayPal info and deciding on a specific day of the month to receive payment for all the assignments you complete within a single cycle. Setting up regular payment dates ensures that you won’t have to worry about late payments, which can save overworked writers a considerable amount of stress. You’ll know exactly when you’re being paid, as well as which account(s) the money is going into.

Submit Invoices Posthaste

A fair number of fledgling writers hold off on sending invoices, opting instead to wait for clients to request them. Unfortunately, this often results in delayed compensation, as many clients expect writers to take full responsibility for their invoices. Furthermore, some clients become annoyed when writers don’t immediately submit invoices upon completing assignments. To prevent this, you’ll need to carefully keep track of your hours and assignments and have your invoices ready within 48 hours of finishing jobs. As a freelancer, it’s important for both your invoices and estimates to carry an air of professionalism. With this in mind, take care to download this professional estimate for free.   

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

When working in any sort of freelance capacity, good client communication is an absolute must. Maintaining regular contact with clients decreases your likelihood of being forgotten and increases your chances of being contacted whenever new work is available. Additionally, make a point of being as polite and personable as possible when interacting with clients, as this will make them more likely to retain your services and recommend you to colleagues. Perhaps most importantly, regular communication ensures that your invoices will receive prompt attention and never fall by the wayside.  

Anyone who wishes to succeed as a freelance writer needs to seek out a steady stream of regular clients. In addition to becoming familiar with various styles and formats, budding writers need to learn the dos and don’ts of payment collection. Writers who consistently complete jobs on time and on-budget deserve to be compensated for their work in an expedient fashion, although this is sometimes easier said than done. Freelancers who are eager to collect payment for their time and effort would be wise to set up regular payment dates with repeat clients, submit invoices posthaste and keep the lines of communication open.