As a freelancer on Fiverr, you know how important it is to get clients. But sometimes a seemingly promising gig can turn into a real headache. That’s what happened to someone on Reddit who made a post about this, who recently met a buyer with some serious Red flags.
Here’s the story: This person received a message from a Fiverr buyer asking for “video effects” on a tight budget of $100 and a two-day turnaround. Awaiting the order (a red flag in itself!), he agreed to take on the project despite the tight deadline, in the hope of securing a new client.
Things quickly went downhill. The project consisted of three videos, two easy and one complex. The buyer, keen to get a “good deal”, offered to deduct money because they were handling a minor task themselves (another red flag!). This low-ball offer, combined with the initial request for an unwatermarked sample (a big no-no!), sent up some major red flags.
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Dodging the Bullet:
This person wisely decided not to go ahead with the project.
Here’s why he made the right choice:
- Unrealistic Expectations: A tight deadline, a complex task, and a low budget scream trouble.
- Scope Creep & Low-ball Offers: The buyer kept adding demands and trying to reduce the agreed-upon price.
- Unprofessional Communication: Requests for unwatermarked samples and pressure tactics are red flags.
How to Handle Red Flag Buyers:
- Trust Your Intuition: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t be afraid to politely decline a project.
- Communicate Clearly: Set expectations upfront about pricing, deadlines, and revisions.
- Protect Your Work: Always use watermarks on samples and only deliver final files after payment.
- Report Unprofessional Behavior: Fiverr has systems to report buyers who violate terms or harass sellers.
What should this person do now?
He/she made the right decision in withdrawing him/her! Blocking the buyer is perfectly acceptable. There’s no need to send a high-resolution sample — it won’t stop the buyer from sending him/her a message and could create copyright problems.
Remember, your time and talent are valuable. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and protect your business from bad clients.
Bonus Tip: Consider creating a standardized message for politely declining projects that raise red flags. This saves time and ensures you’re always professional.
How do I handle a buyer who keeps changing the project requirements?
Communicate clearly and assertively about the agreed-upon scope of work, and consider renegotiating terms if necessary.
How can I protect myself from difficult buyers on Fiverr?
Screen potential buyers before accepting projects, establish a solid contract outlining terms and expectations, and seek support from Fiverr’s customer service if needed.
Remember, handling difficult buyers is part of the freelancing journey, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can navigate these challenges like a pro. Stay positive, stay proactive, and keep growing in your freelance career!
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