I always have mix emotions when working with a new client. On one hand, I’m excited and thrilled, especially if I’m really interested in the project. But on the other hand, I never know what I’m going to get. The client can be a dream or a complete nightmare. I’ve had my share of both. Thankfully, my difficult clients have been few, and in most cases, we were able to resolve small issues and maintain a professional relationship.

But I have learned something from my bad experiences. In almost every case, tension arose from miscommunication. I do everything in my power to give clients what they want. They send me article or writing guidelines, and I follow their direction. But sometimes, their directions aren’t clear. And then there’s the fickle client who changes their direction two or three times, which adds to the confusion.

My days of pretending to be a mind reader are over. Nowadays, I don’t hesitate to ask questions. If I don’t understand something, or if I need further clarification…I’m shooting the client an e-mail. Yes, they are busy. And yes, it may take them hours or a day to respond…which slows me down. But in the end, asking questions pays off.

I’m able to get the assignment right the first time around; and the client and I remain on the same page. It’s a win-win situation.