One of the things I learned many years ago was that if a client balks at the price, they're a problem client. There are exceptions, of course, but some clients do this routinely - they're the ones I'm talking about. IMHO, those clients are almost never profitable.

The same can be true of clients who just can't afford you. They want a $15,000 web site for $4,000 and they think they're spending a lot and should get all the bells and whistles. Again, there are exceptions to that rule as well, but generally it's true. The exception are people who understand your value, but can't afford you, but make it clear they're really grateful that you're cutting them a deal. But they're maybe 1 in 20 people in this group.

Here's a video from YouTube that puts a funny slant on it. If you prefer, you can watch it in HD on YouTube...

In these dire economic times it's tempting to take on clients - even when they can't come close to affording you. We had to turn down an interesting project lately because we got this sorta bad vibe off it. Just be careful - you may be better turning down the work.

Categories: Business Issues