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Freelancers' worst nightmare: Bad clients

This year, 366 tech companies laid off 107,370 employees.

Let that sink in for a second.

If you’re a designer, chances are you’ve watched colleagues—or maybe even yourself; get shown the door. Now, many designers are flirting with the idea of freelancing.

Sounds dreamy, right? No boss breathing down your neck, the freedom to work in your PJs, and the potential to charge the rates you deserve.

But hold up…

Before you dive in, let’s talk about something crucial: not every client is worth your time.

In fact, some clients will make you wish you had stayed at that toxic 9-to-5. Here’s how to vet them, and when it’s time to simply say, “Nope, I’m out!” ✌️

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Client Vetting

1. Start with a vibe check

✅ Initial call is everything:

If a client can’t even show up on time for that first Zoom call, guess what?

They won’t respect your time when it comes to deadlines, either.

Pay attention to how they talk to you; are they rude, dismissive, or condescending? Trust your gut.

✅ Ask about budget upfront:

Don’t waste weeks with a client who doesn’t even have the budget for your expertise. Ask directly, “What’s your budget for this project?”

If they dance around it, they’re probably not serious.

✅ Red fags matter:

Do they expect the world but have a shoestring budget?

Do they keep talking about “exposure” instead of fair pay?

Run. Fast.

2. Set clear expectations from day 1

✅ Scope creep is real:

You need to lay out what you’re delivering down to the last wireframe.

If they want more, they need to pay more. And no, you’re not their magical design genie.

✅ Payment terms are not optional:

Define how and when you’ll get paid before you even think about starting.

If they’re iffy about paying a deposit, it’s a sign. Make your peace and move on.

3. Understand their why

✅ Why do they need you?

If they can’t clearly explain why they want a UX designer or what problem they're solving, they don’t know what they want; prepare for endless revisions.

✅ Do they respect your expertise?

If they treat you like a pixel pusher instead of a pro, it’s going to be a headache.

You’re a designer, not their puppet.

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5 ways to fire a client (because yes, you can ☺️)

1. The straight shooter:

“Hey [Client’s Name], I appreciate the chance to work together, but our goals just don’t align. Let’s wrap things up.”

→ No drama, no fluff—just cut the cord. They might not love it, but you’ll feel lighter.

2. The “change in focus” excuse:

“I’ve shifted my focus and can’t continue with this project.”

→ Great for a softer exit. Works well when they’re not awful, but not right for you either.

3. Blunt honesty:

“Honestly, the project scope doesn’t align with what I can deliver while maintaining quality. It’s best we end things here.”

→ This could lead to a grown-up conversation or at least a clean break.

4. Blame your availability:

“My availability has changed, so I can’t commit the time your project needs.”

→ Perfect for avoiding confrontation. Be ready to stick to your guns if they push back.

5. Price ‘em out:

“My new rate is [New Rate]. Let me know if that works for you.”

→ If they walk away, problem solved. If they pay up, at least you’re getting more cash for the hassle.

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Final thoughts 💬

Freelancing can be the fresh start you need, but don’t let desperation lead you into a client nightmare.

Remember: Not all clients deserve your time, talent, or sanity.

You’re not here to fix their disorganised project or let them bleed you dry with endless revisions.

Know your worth, set your boundaries, and when it’s time—don’t be afraid to fire a client who isn’t serving you.

At the end of the day, the freedom to choose who you work with is what makes freelancing worth it.

🚨 Important disclaimer:

It’ll take months maybe even years to find your flow, build connections, and land solid clients.

Be patient. Don’t let a few difficult clients or setbacks push you off track. And definitely don’t let the assholes keep you from being your own boss.

Hang in there; the freedom is worth it.

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