How do you keep freelance clients happy with revisions?

It happens sometimes that the client doesn’t understand the deliverables promised. In that case clear communication is the key. Even when you have communicated clearly, clients miss important details and later ask for revisions. In my view take their suggestions and if it’s not much, do the needful. A happy client is a better prospect than saving time.

In my experience, establishing clear expectations through authenticity and transparency paves the way for distinct and measurable outcomes. Make sure you’re aligned through crystal clear communication that is documented so you have a reference to come back to if needed.

Clearly defining a project's scope, expectations, timelines, revision policies and update frequency from the start not only ensures both parties are on the same page but also allows for smoother workflow too. When you and the client have a mutual understanding of goals, target audience and tone etc., it minimizes misunderstandings that may lead to potential problems later on. Transparent expectations create trust and foster a productive working relationship that results in all parties being satisfised with the final outcome.

I totally agree with this point. If you are updating progress since the start, misunderstandings clear way before they can become a big deal. Parameters can be adjusted and work can progress smoothly.

Actively listening to a client's feedback (even if you don't necessarily agree, since the copy is for them at the end of the day), asking clarifying questions when you aren't 100% sure about something and providing timely updates on a project's progress demonstrates professionalism. With that being said, don't be afraid to speak up for yourself if you disagree with suggestions made by clients though (if you think your way will be better) or standing your ground when a client demands revisions beyond those agreed on already. Of course this should always be done a professional manner though. By having strong communication, you will ensure that the final product not only meets expectations but exceeds them too.

Effective communication involves customising your approach to the client while expecting reciprocity. For instance, within the startup and nonprofit arena, recognise the prevalence of tight timelines and modest budgets. Adjust your communication style accordingly, displaying adaptability to align with your client. You might need to prioritise tasks, concentrating on crucial aspects that match with the available time and budget. Skillful strategic planning, combined with sustained effective communication, becomes super important in this context. Try create an atmosphere where open dialogues are encouraged. This transparency cultivates understanding and proactive troubleshooting, thereby contributing to successful outcomes.

Clear project plans and well-defined deliverables act as the scaffolding that helps you move forward smoothly and successfully. Just like building a house, getting the foundations right sets the stage for success. With so many new tools and resources at our fingertips, errors and inconsistencies hold no ground. Stay proactive by honing your proficiency with these tools to enhance your work and expertise.

Delivering copy that the client is 100% happy with is the most important thing. Sticking to a client's brief is important but also always aim to create engaging copy that captivates and resonates because it is your job to understand the client's audience even more than they do. You will undoubtedly refine and polish copy many times until it is exactly what the client wants as well as being something you are happy with too.

In my experience this can be challenging, but it's essential to maintain a focus on outcomes. Especially when engaged in purpose-driven work, the ultimate goal is to create an impact so reminding ourselves of this objective helps us push through difficulties and continue progressing.

There is an important balance between listening to a client's suggestions and offering your own expertise. Create a collaborative atmosphere by accommodating changes in tone or direction, to demonstrate your adaptability and commitment to a client's evolving vision. Having an open-minded approach to feedback allows for a two-way dialogue that will enhance the quality of the final product. Be willing to explore new ideas based on client input, so that you can deliver content that aligns with a their vision but also don't be afraid to give your own perspective too as this will ultimately lead to excellent copy.

Some clients just want what they want. Others want you to guide them. Some expect countless revisions. I set clear expectations from the start about how many revisions I will offer them. Setting parameters from the outset avoids misunderstandings. If clients have fixed ideas, then I deliver what they want, although I will add my suggestions based on my expertise. I don't take anything personally if they're not open to my ideas. At the end of the day, if they are satisfied then I've done my job.

Wanting to take on every project you see is normal but it is important to recognize when a project's scope is beyond your ability. There is no shame in having weaknesses. In fact, many of your strengths now, may have been weakness in the past. There is always time to improve your skills but not while on the job. Never overpromise and underdeliver. Knowing your limits can also refer to standing your ground though. For example, when a client is being demanding or rude. In this case, it is important to remain professional in your communication when trying to come to an agreement but if their behaviour persists, there is often no other choice than to walk away and terminate your relationship with them.

Ask sufficient questions before starting. This can help minimize the need to revise a writing project. On your own, research their other materials (such as their website and social media pages, if you're rewriting their website) and ask what they want done differently for their tone and purpose and what should stay similar. Feel free to make suggestions but don't veer wildly outside of what they want.