The Creative Freelancer’s Guide to Handling Clients Who Don’t Pay Back Expenses {Ep. 92}

What should you do when clients don’t reimburse you for out-of-pocket expenses? Today, we’re talking about the importance of managing out-of-pocket expenses for clients to protect your financial stability and business operations. I'll share my own personal experiences of being left unreimbursed, highlight the distinction between service fees and expenses, and I offer some legal insights on setting clear boundaries and payment terms in client contracts.  Key issues include creating enforceable agreements, understanding opportunity costs, and avoiding financial risks by establishing up-front payment practices and clear consequences for nonpayment. 00:00 Free Resource for Managing Clients 01:51 Personal Story: Learning the Hard Way 03:04 Understanding the Real Cost of Fronting Expenses 04:04 Setting Boundaries and Clear Expectations 06:29 Legal Insights and Practical Tips 10:10 Final Thoughts and A Plan for You Resources Which client-pleasing pattern is holding you back? Take the Quiz! Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Do you feel like your clients don't value you or your experience? In this episode, I discuss how to handle situations where you don't feel valued by your clients.  We talk about the importance of over-communicating, and why it's often our responsibility to educate clients on how to value us. We’ll look at the significance of communicating boundaries and expectations, and I’ll give you some actionable steps to improve client relationships as I share a personal story to illustrate these points and offer strategies for having tough conversations with clients.  Remember, it's about learning, growing, and ensuring that your value is recognized. Dive in and make sure you're not stepping back, but stepping up to be heard. 01:16 Understanding Client Value Perception 04:25 Communicating Your Worth 05:54 Setting Boundaries and Expectations 08:42 Handling Difficult Conversations 12:52 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Resources Schedule a Roadmap to Freedom™ Strategy Session Which client-pleasing pattern is holding you back? Take the Quiz! Episode 4: Managing Expectations (The ones you have of others) Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Are you ready to start using your contract to attract the clients and the money you want? If so, then our upcoming contract course is for you. LEARN MORE AND ENROLL IN THE CLIENT CONTRACTS CRASH COURSE HERE! We start the week of September 29, 2025. This live, eight-week course helps you tackle common issues like scope creep, client ghosting, and unclear expectations.  Effective contracts should reflect your values and positively influence client relationships, making them crucial for smooth projects and better opportunities.  Enrollment is now open, and the course aims to equip you with the tools needed for enhanced business interactions by the new year! LEARN MORE AND ENROLL IN THE CLIENT CONTRACTS CRASH COURSE HERE! 00:33 Importance of Contracts for Creatives 01:39 Course Details and Benefits 02:24 Transforming Client Relationships >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn

Are you tired of chasing invoices, dealing with scope creep, and working for clients who don’t respect your boundaries? In this episode, I uncover the real reason clients hire or fire you: you’ll find it in your contract.  From my experiences with countless clients and students across various industries, I’ve found common patterns that can prevent you from thriving.  Listen and learn why using internet templates or borrowed contracts isn't enough and how creating a custom contract can lead to respect, timely payments, and enjoyable work. ⚡ I also introduce my Contracts Clinic, an 8-week LIVE crash course designed to help creatives like you craft effective contracts. Tune in to discover how to set clear boundaries, attract dream clients, and protect your passion and paycheck. Start transforming the way you manage your creative business! 00:44 Client Stories and Patterns 02:53 The Importance of Custom Contracts 04:05 Common Mistakes with Contracts 08:00 Setting Boundaries and Expectations 09:05 Understanding Principles of Contracts 16:00 Conclusion Resources Get on the Waitlist for the next LIVE Client Contracts Crash Course! Which client-pleasing pattern is holding you back? Take the Quiz! >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Are you struggling with clients who don't pay on time? In this episode, I’m debunking the myth that you have to continue working even if you're not paid - and I am sharing vital strategies on handling non-paying clients.  From the importance of a solid contract to proactively setting consequences for non-payment, I’ll guide you step-by-step on protecting your time, energy, and reputation.  Key topics include avoiding the sunk cost fallacy, using plain language in contracts and negotiations, and setting monetary and non-monetary consequences. Learn how to safeguard your freelance / business with effective contract management.  Tune in and empower yourself to stop work when you’re not being paid! 00:53 Understanding Non-Payment Issues 03:12 Importance of Clear Contracts 04:24 Setting Boundaries and Consequences 09:00 Practical Advice and Personal Experiences 12:30 Clarifying Non-Payment Consequences Resources Get on the Waitlist for the next Client Contracts Crash Course! Take the Quiz: Identify and start fixing your client-pleasing patterns today! Spotify Playlist: Episodes 32 - 36 (Contracts Basics: What You Need to Know Before You Sign) Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Are you struggling with a client who crosses the line? Today, I discuss how to address disrespectful clients, set boundaries, and communicate expectations clearly with freelance clients. I’ll share my own experiences and provide practical advice on how to handle clients who are disrespectful of your time and energy. Key points include the right time to address disrespect, differentiating between client needs and disrespect, and leveraging contracts to set boundaries. 00:59 The Right Time to Address Disrespect 02:32 Humanizing Client Relationships 04:21 Communicating Expectations and Consequences 04:56 Scripts for Handling Disrespect 08:56 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned 10:35 Changing the Industry Norms Resources Get on the Waitlist for the next Client Contracts Crash Course! Take the Quiz: Identify and start fixing your people-pleasing patterns today! Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” Schedule a Strategy Call with Sheila Episode 82 - Hidden Freelance Contract Gaps That Could Cost You Big (And How to Fix Them) Episode 83 - Afraid To Lose Clients? Why Defining Your Ideal Client Is Key To A Joyful Business >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Are you struggling to maintain boundaries while being friendly with clients? In this episode, I share a personal story about the turning point that made me realize the importance of setting boundaries - and how I learned to strike that balance. From being available 24/7 to implementing strict communication rules, learn how to protect your time and energy while still maintaining a good relationship with your clients. Key points discussed include: understanding the difference between being liked and respected,  defining your deal breakers, and  how personal habits spill over into professional settings. Join me as I delve into strategies for blending friendliness with clear boundaries.  00:55 The Turning Point: A Client's Disruptive Call 02:33 Setting Boundaries: Lessons Learned 05:33 The Importance of Respect and Clarity 06:47 Personal and Professional Boundaries 07:39 Practical Tips for Enforcing Boundaries 09:08 Communicating Boundaries Effectively Resources Take the Quiz: Identify and start fixing your people-pleasing patterns today! Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” Get on the Waitlist for the next Client Contracts Crash Course! Schedule a Strategy Call with Sheila Episode 85 - Managing Unlimited Revision Requests from Clients  >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode! >>> 

Tired of endless revisions and unclear expectations with your clients? If so, then today’s episode is for you! In this episode, I dive into how you can limit the number of revisions and feedback opportunities for clients by including three key sentences in your contract. Learn why it’s wrong to believe 'the client is always right' and get actionable steps to ensure both you and your clients have aligned expectations, ultimately fostering more respectful and productive professional relationships. 02:24 The Myth of 'The Client is Always Right' 03:56 Key Contract Clauses to Limit Revisions 05:51 Setting Client Expectations 07:54 The Importance of Clear Boundaries 09:47 Practical Steps to Implement Limits 11:48 Real-Life Example: Agency Experience Resources Take the Quiz! Identify and start fixing your people-pleasing patterns today! Schedule a Strategy Call Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” Get on the Waitlist for the next Client Contracts Crash Course! >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

Do you have a framework for your client work? One that works time and time again? If not, then today’s episode is for you! Today, we tackle an issue that's more prevalent than ever – the misguided belief in cookie-cutter solutions offered by so-called 'gurus'. Their frameworks may have worked for them, but that doesn't mean they'll work for you.  This episode delves deep into rejecting societal pressures of perfectionism, the importance of viewing life and work as experiments, and setting clear boundaries with clients.  Learn how to attract the right clients, the right projects, and the right pay by being your true self and committing to a proactive, customized approach. Let’s focus on protecting your peace, heart, and reputation, whether you're a freelancer, business owner, or employee. Tune in for actionable notes and tips including more on my free interactive guide on how to tweak your client contracts to make them more 'you'. 00:29 The Problem with Guru Frameworks 03:28 Embracing Failure as an Experiment 05:06 Creating Your Own Framework 08:08 Setting Boundaries and Expectations 12:53 The Importance of Contracts 15:24 Taking Control of Your Client Relationships Resources Creatives - Take the Quiz! Identify and start fixing your people-pleasing patterns today! Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” Get on the Waitlist for the next Client Contracts Crash Course! >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!

In this episode, I delve into the emotional aspects of the fear of losing clients. We’ll discuss recognizing red flags, prioritizing yourself and your needs, and clearly defining the type of clients you want to work with. I’m also sharing personal experiences and at the end, I'll provide you with a handful of actionable steps to help you identify your ideal clients. By doing so, you can be sure your work aligns with your values, ultimately leading to more satisfaction and success in your professional life. 00:32 The Emotional Side of Losing Clients 01:46 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned 03:28 Finding Clarity and Defining Your Ideal Client 05:10 The Importance of Values in Client Selection 12:23 Practical Steps to Attract the Right Clients Resources Schedule a Strategy Call today Free Interactive Guide: “12 Simple Tweaks to a Clearer Client Contract” Get on the Waitlist for the 8-Week Contracts Course >>>  Hi! I’m Sheila, your guide to a Joyful and Thriving™ creative life! I have lots of titles: attorney, social worker, coach, consultant, keynote speaker, educator. And while I’m proud of those titles, I am a human first and a title second – just like you. I want to help you reset expectations, set boundaries, and make aligned decisions, so you can streamline and focus your energy on the people, projects, and pay that actually matter to you.  Instagram: @sheilamwilkinson | LinkedIn Rate this podcast/episode on Apple Podcasts, or leave feedback here, and be sure to leave me a voice note with a question for me to answer in a future episode!