I got details of a potential client off a well known website fully understanding that you win some and loose some. They were advertising as a Sole Trader needing help with year end accounts. Fine so far.
I emailed and text the person and a couple of days later got a text back saying they were interested and could we discuss. I agreed a date and time to call them. Tried to call and got no answer then minutes later I got a sorry I was driving can you phone me tomorrow? Yes I replied, but the next day again no answer. I got a text back apologising saying they were very busy and could I leave it a few more days. Then they had a death in the family so I left it another week. Then came another death in the family and the call was re-arranged for about 10 days later. I have yet again tried to make contact and been put off another few days. I then get a text saying they were registered as self-employed from June and therefore didn't think a self-assessment was needed until the following year. Correct so why as for year end accounts then?!
I am getting cheesed off with being messed about. Why advertise if accounts are not ready? If they are not interested in me doing the accounts then stop stringing me along saying you are still interested but then can't be bothered to answer a phone call.
I am sure other people have experienced this and I am sure it will happen to me again.
Whinge over now.
Any one had similar experiences and should I persevere and try and get to the bottom of it or cut my losses and move on to finding other clients?
Work is not that freely available and as I am a new self employed person myself I am grateful of work.
Move on Elaine, experience has taught me if they can't be bothered now then they will be useless later and cause you even more headaches!!!
There are in deed some decent potential clients around I'm sure one will come along soon. Most of mine are good I have one or two that are a pain in the A***!
I make no more than three attempts. If they cant make time for a short phonecall now, what will they be like for providing information? I know sometimes life throws things in our way and we get caught up, but I totally agree with Amanda, and I would be inclined to politely decline next time they get in touch. (I say that assuming it was never going to be a fee that was worth all this messing about)
Have you left your job then, Elaine? Or do you mean you are just new to part time SE?
Move on. As you get busier you won't want people like that. I took on one like that when I was just starting out as I wanted the work but I wish now that I hadn't. He's a nightmare, messy accounts on a spreadsheet, VAT incorrect, no bank account, no clue, thinks my fees are too high (they aren't, I quoted low at the start to get the work) and doesn't pay his bill without being hassled. There is work out there, you will find people that appreciate you.
