A Guide to Contract Preparation as a Freelancer

Most freelancers are creative folks and the business aspect of things is a necessary thing that we just have to contend with.

One business-related side of freelancing that’s enough to make us cringe is “contract.” Writing a freelance contract is about as far from creative as you can get. They seem to be stale documents filled with legalese that take up time to negotiate, create and sign but it is necessary to have a contract in place as a freelancer, an entrepreneur, and as a client.

All this might seem like a boring waste of time, contracts can ultimately save you a lot of time and money. They can help assure clients of your professionalism and competency.

Your contract should dictate payments, deadlines, deliverables, and anything else having to do with the client/freelancer relationship. Both of you should sign this and have a deposit paid before ANY work is commenced (if you require one).

Contracts are put in place to protect ALL parties, not just the freelancer. The client is getting a guarantee of the work and deliverables they can expect, timelines and payment schedules. It should also covers intellectual property rights, confidentiality, rights to terminate, liability, and a couple miscellaneous things.

It is advisable to get a lawyer to assist with the legal aspect and for legal backing of the document.

Ensure you discuss payment plans in your contract and it is advisable to request for a deposit before commencement.

There are many reasons why you should ask for a deposit. Here are a few:

• You eliminate clients who have the intention to not pay!
• Clients are more committed in the work and in your business relationship because they have some their money at stake!
• It is an extremely smart business move! Just in case the client decides to terminate the work and you already invested time and effort in it.

Ensure you list out and specify exactly what you, as a freelancer, will be responsible for. Client’s expected deliverables, all timelines and deadlines. Ensure the client reads the document it and give room for amendments, as it is meant to be a mutually beneficial relationship.

Still wondering what a typical freelancer contract should look like? We have created a downloadable template for you.

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