Chapter 23. Freelancing Tips – Knowing When to Fire a Client

If you're starting on your freelance journey, or still even considering it, the topic of this chapter may seem insane. However, I can ensure you that knowing when to fire a client is a critical component of building a successful freelance business. It can also sharpen up the same decision-making skills you use every day as a developer in general.

My urgent client

A few years ago, I was hired by a fast-rising startup. The company had skyrocketing growth, and I was hired to build their platform. After going through the interview process, I was hired. Soon after taking the client, I met with a developer who was leaving the organization.

After the developer walked me through the system he gave me a word of warning. He mentioned that the CEO of the company had a favorite word: urgent. I filed the information in the back of my mind and started working on the application. Within days, I learned why the previous developer...