Vent: I used to think a handshake deal was enough for small jobs, but a $500 mistake changed my mind

For years, I did small design jobs, like a logo for a local cafe, with just a quick chat and a verbal okay. I figured a contract was overkill and might scare off nice clients. Last fall, a repeat client asked for a quick flyer update. We agreed on a flat $300 over email. I did the work, sent the files, and then got a request for three more versions 'since it was so easy.' When I sent a new bill, they refused to pay, saying the original email covered 'the project.' I was out $500 in time and had no clear scope to point to. That email chain wasn't a contract, it was just a messy record of a bad deal. Now, even for a two hour job, I send a simple one page agreement that says exactly what 'done' looks like. Has anyone else been burned by thinking a friendly chat was solid enough?

3 comments

3 Comments

lee81mo ago

What finally pushed you to write it down?

joseph_lewis921mo ago

My cat walked across the keyboard and typed the first line. Figured I should finish it for her.

miller.paul2d ago

Actually my neighbor's cat once opened a blank email and I closed it right away. Animals have no business with creative work. If the cat typed something, it's just random keys, not some deep message. Finishing it gives credit where none is due. The whole idea is pretty silly if you ask me.