Freelance “Hold” Question

[Ed Cilley]

Try posting to the Business & Marketing forum.

[Chip Hess]

Absolutely!

Thanks much – wish I could delete this one now …

[Danny Littwin]

When a client asks me to “hold” a date I do not consider it to be a firm booking. If I get a job offer for the same time, I call the client with the “hold” and tell them. At that point it is up to them to cancel the hold or place a firm booking.

I have never charged anything for a “hold.” The understanding is that the client has the right of first refusal. After placing a “firm” then the client assumes whatever liabilities are usual under the circumstances. There are some clients that I do not accept holds from, only firm bookings with guarantees.

If a client cancels a firm booking in close date proximity to the work date then a cancellation fee is usual, though not always mandatory. If a major client of mine cancels a
job, I will assume it is due to circumstance beyond their control and not request any fees,
knowing that they will call me first for the next couple of shows. Sometimes they pay me a fee in any case. You have to determine the nature of each client relationship.

And you have to be firm, professional and as friendly as possible. Asking clients for money
is tough enough, it is even tougher when no work was done. The trick is to keep their respect and make them comfortable doing business with you.

Hope this helps

Danny

Just because it’s new does not mean it works… it only increases the odds.