From the course: Freelancing Tips

How to handle scope creep with a client

From the course: Freelancing Tips

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How to handle scope creep with a client

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- Have you ever been working on a client's project and had them change things up and try to add something new? Most freelancers run into this situation at some point, and it can be a real headache. When a client suddenly wants something outside of the scope of work you agreed on, it's called scope creep. If you just go along with the change in scope, you may end up spending more time on a project without being compensated for that work. And it's not just the money, that's time you can't dedicate to another project or spend finding another paying client. This is one of the biggest reasons why having a contract is so important. A contract protects you from scope creep. Before I go any further, I want to preface this by saying that clients aren't always being malicious or trying to take advantage of you when they ask for something out of scope. Sometimes, clients have never worked with a freelancer before, and they don't understand why asking for something outside of scope is a big deal. Or they may genuinely forget what is in scope. So how do you respond to a client asking for something outside of scope? Here's a simple response you can use every time. I'm happy to do that, but because it's outside of our scope of work, it'll cost this amount of money and take this many days to finish. Should I get started? I like this response for a lot of reasons. Right off the bat, you confirm that you're able and interested in doing the work. But you're also letting the client know that their request is outside of the scope you've created together and agreed upon. I know this part of the sentence, but because it's outside of our scope of work, is the scariest part. But saying this reminds the client that you know the agreement, you value your time, and it shows you're a professional. In the long run, it's good for you. This phrasing puts the ball in the client's court, and gives them the choice of how they want to move forward. By quoting the cost and the amount of time you'll need, you're managing the client's expectations and giving yourself the opportunity to make more money. Now, the client won't always say, yes go ahead and get started. Often, they'll backtrack, apologize for going outside of scope, and be happy with the work you're already doing. But, in either case, you've protected your time.

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