Lessons from 100+ Client Projects#

1. Communication is Everything#

80% of project success is communication, 20% is code.

• Be clear about timelines
• Ask questions early
• Send updates regularly
• Be honest about challenges

2. Always Get Requirements in Writing#

1
Do this:
2
- Written project scope
3
- Signed agreement
4
- Clear deliverables
5
- Payment milestones
6

7
Avoid this:
8
- Verbal agreements only
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- Vague requirements
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- "We'll figure it out later"

3. Underpromise, Overdeliver#

Clients love pleasant surprises!

4. Set Clear Boundaries#

Things I learned to say:

• “That’s outside the scope, but we can add it for X”
• “I’ll need more time to do this properly”
• “Let me check my schedule first”

5. The 50/50 Payment Rule#

1
Project Payment Structure:
2
├── 50% upfront (before starting)
3
└── 50% on completion (before handover)

Never start without a deposit. Ever.

6. Build a Portfolio Early#

Every project is a portfolio piece:

• Take screenshots
• Document the process
• Ask for testimonials
• Share on socials

7. Types of Clients I’ve Worked With#

• Startups - Fast-paced, exciting
• Small businesses - Appreciate quality
• Individuals - Personal projects
• Gaming communities - Fun projects!

8. Red Flags to Watch For#

• “We’ll pay you after launch”
• “This should only take a few hours”
• “We don’t have a budget, but great exposure!”
• “Can you start now and we’ll sort details later?”

Final Thoughts#

Freelancing is hard but rewarding. The key is:

• Build trust
• Deliver quality
• Keep learning

Happy freelancing!