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Hey there, fellow freelancer! If you're anything like me, you know the feeling of waiting for payment after submitting an invoice.
It can be frustrating when the payment is delayed, but it's important to handle the situation professionally and politely.
In this article, we'll explore some friendly and informal ways to remind someone to pay you for your work.
Send a Friendly Reminder Email
The first step in reminding someone to pay you for your work is to send a friendly reminder email. It's possible that the client simply forgot or didn't receive the invoice.
Be sure to include the details of the invoice, including the due date, rate and payment amount. Here's an example of what you could write:
Hi [Client Name],
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to touch base and remind you that the payment for the work I completed is due soon. I've attached the invoice to this email for your convenience. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you and have a great day!
Follow up with a Phone Call
If you haven't heard back from the client after sending the reminder email, it's time to follow up with a phone call.
This allows for a more personal connection and can help to expedite the payment process. Be sure to introduce yourself and ask if it's a good time to talk.
Then, politely remind them of the invoice details and due date. Here's an example of what you could say:
Hi [Client Name],
This is [Your Name] calling. I wanted to check in and make sure you received the invoice I sent you. I'm just following up to see if you had any questions or concerns regarding payment. The payment is due in a few days, so I wanted to make sure everything is on track. Let me know if there's anything I can do to help.
Thanks so much!
Be Polite and Professional
While it's important to be friendly and informal, it's also important to remain professional.
It's okay to assert yourself and remind the client of their obligations, but do so in a polite and professional manner.
Avoid being confrontational or accusatory, and instead focus on finding a solution that works for both parties.
Offer Payment Plan Options
If the client is having trouble paying the full amount at once, consider offering payment plan options.
This can help to alleviate any financial strain while also ensuring that you receive the money you're owed.
Be sure to get any payment plan agreements in writing to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings down the line.
Offer a Discount for Early Payment
If the client is having trouble making the payment on time, consider offering a discount for early payment.
This can incentivize the client to make the payment sooner rather than later.
Be sure to set clear terms and conditions for the discount, such as a specific percentage off or a deadline for payment. Here's an example of what you could write:
Hi [Client Name],
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to offer you a discount on the payment for the work I completed. If you're able to make the payment by [Date], I can offer you a [Percentage] discount on the total amount due.
This is a limited-time offer, so please let me know if you're interested.
Thank you and have a great day!
How to remind someone to pay you: the do’s & don’ts
Do's:
- Be clear and specific about the payment terms and due date when you first start working with a client.
- Send friendly reminders before and after the payment due date.
- Use a friendly and professional tone in all of your communication.
- Be understanding and patient with the client, and offer solutions to any payment issues.
- Keep accurate records of all invoices and payments for your own records.
Don'ts:
- Don't be aggressive or confrontational in your communication with the client.
- Don't make assumptions or accusations about the client's payment habits or intentions.
- Don't forget to follow up on unpaid invoices, even if you're hesitant to come across as pushy.
- Don't accept excuses or promises of payment without a specific plan for when and how the payment will be made.
- Don't let unpaid invoices slide - it's important to value your work and receive the compensation you deserve.
In conclusion, reminding someone to pay you for your work doesn't have to be a negative experience.
By remaining friendly, informal, and professional, you can assert yourself while also maintaining a positive relationship with your client.
Remember to always communicate clearly and respectfully, and don't be afraid to offer payment plan options if necessary.
Good luck, and happy freelancing!