I've had a client for two years. He's one of those that expects things done the second he calls, but gives serious lack of info, then takes months to give you that info and then has a go that you are taking too long. In July I completed everything (as best I could with the information given) to the end of March, so his accountant could sort out his year end. He paid me (a month late) at the end of August, and I've not had any communication from him since, despite me sending a couple of emails chasing paperwork for this Tax Year. Do I assume he doesn't want me doing his bookkeeping now or should I chase again? He could be a bit flakey with the communication anyway, and I would chase him for a couple of months asking for info, then he would get back to me and expect me to drop all my other clients. If I chase again, how should I word an email? Should I ask if he is terminating our agreement? He doesn't owe me any money, nor do I have anything of his, so I have a feeling he is just going to ignore me.
There is a type of client which is very hard to communicate with. Also, he might not be checking his email every 5 minutes.
Did you try to call him in a calm and understanding manner?
If you feel he's too much trouble and not worth the money he's paying you, then it is up to you terminate your agreement with him.
Keep in mind, that they might just too busy.
People seem to find every possible reason to explain that they are/were too occupied.
If he had ever answered his phone in the two years I have been working with him then I would try to call but he has never once answered. He also has no voicemail for me to leave a message. Text is also as easily ignored as email.
I don't want to terminate the agreement at all as it is a very good earner for me. But should he want to terminate it, I'd rather he got in touch and told me officially, than just ignore me.
I also think its highly unlikely that he hasn't checked his emails in over two months.
Can you send him a novelty gift such as a keyring just to change the tone of contacts between you. It'll be Christmas soon so also a card might go some way to achieving the same end.
I've had a client for two years. He's one of those that expects things done the second he calls, but gives serious lack of info, then takes months to give you that info and then has a go that you are taking too long. In July I completed everything (as best I could with the information given) to the end of March, so his accountant could sort out his year end. He paid me (a month late) at the end of August, and I've not had any communication from him since, despite me sending a couple of emails chasing paperwork for this Tax Year. Do I assume he doesn't want me doing his bookkeeping now or should I chase again? He could be a bit flakey with the communication anyway, and I would chase him for a couple of months asking for info, then he would get back to me and expect me to drop all my other clients. If I chase again, how should I word an email? Should I ask if he is terminating our agreement? He doesn't owe me any money, nor do I have anything of his, so I have a feeling he is just going to ignore me.
I wouldn't mention whether he wants to terminate the contract,, as that might give him the impression you no longer want to do his books. I would send another email politely reminding him that, if he wishes to bring his books up to date, you will require paperwork by a certain date.. Also ask for a read receipt, so you know that he has actually read it, and if he hasn't within a week/fortnight, follow it up with a recorded delivery letter.
If he still doesn't respond, then assume he's gone but if he gets back in touch months down the line, just explain that, although you will bring his books up to date as soon as possible, you are busy with other clients and it may take a bit longer than he'd like.
-- Edited by 111 Bookkeeping and Payroll on Friday 31st of October 2014 11:42:51 AM
He will probably get in touch on 31.01.14 and expect you to do his books before midnight :)
LOL, I once submitted my own accounts at 23:59 on the deadline date, and watched the process spinning as the clock struck midnight. Fortunately it was accepted before the bewitching hour.
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
