As a freelancer/small business owner, do you ever have to nag your client–you know, to get the content, the feedback, the sign-off, the whatever you need to keep their project on track? Of course you have.

I just hate nagging. (Yes–even as a mother–though that hasn’t stopped me!) I figure that since I’ve spelled almost everything out in the contract, I’m a good communicator & project manager, and I’ve taken the deposit–everything should move along accordingly. Yet, often things do not move along in a timely fashion.

Go figure.

But move along they must. And nag, so I must. But I’ll be nice about it (don’t want to come off as heavy handed or pushy). After all, my client is a busy, busy person with lots of irons in the fire. So here’s my new, all-purpose nagging/prodding/get up and make a decision! letter to my tardy client…

My Dear Client,

It is with deep affection that I write this letter. I value our relationship. It’s a good one, based on mutual respect and trust. It’s exciting! We have such big plans–I cannot wait to deliver your project and see your happy smile.

However…we have a little problem. And I don’t feel entirely comfortable talking about it. But…well, it is important, after all. Just–don’t take this as criticism or anything BAD–it’s so totally fixable! It’s just that…well, I feel like you don’t care any more. There, I said it.

Remember when we were first introduced? How we talked and emailed and IMed each other? Bouncing ideas back and forth, sharing links…dreaming BIG? And then how we got to work and invested ourselves in the project. (You were so nice, signing that contract and giving me money!) I worked sooo hard during the early phase, just for you! But lately, I’ve felt, well…ignored.

I need your feedback. I live for it. I need to know if you’re happy or we cannot move on. I need sign-off [foot stomping] or I simply will not carry on any further!

Ooohh…I’m sorry! I don’t mean to offend! It’s just so tough, being excited about your project and all. [I even cleared this very week to devote just to you!] And nothing, nothing is happening. Please…just give me a sign. Pleeeease.

Yes, that’s it! A check mark sign! Right there _____. Your initials, the date, and we’re all good again.

See…didn’t hurt a bit, did it?

Thanks, I’m feeling much better now!

With great affection, your designer,

Catherine