skizm - 6:34 am on Sep 17, 2005 (gmt 0)

This post is a few days old and what not, but the experience is one I've had to learn to deal with as well and just thought I'd add my two cents...

It really only comes down to two responses with each custom fit for the two base types of clients...

1. Kindly explain while you enjoy being of such great help, you have to make a living and keep the lights on. You want to try to provide them with an outlook on the circumstances they can personally relate to. For example perhaps compare it to the idea of if they were visiting a doctor, lawyer, mechanic etc...

Where as the initial consultation might be free, but it ends there as you have other things you could be doing justified by paid time.

This way is for the more clear and logically thinking client. A halfway intelligent person will pick up on this and there will be no further problems.

2. Flat out tell them you don't have time to hold their hand through the process. If they want free advice, help, resources etc, thats what the internet is for. Heck, refer them here even...

This ones reserved for the "cat lady" type clients whom just incessantly want more for less and cant comprehend the idea valued time & skills... If they are truly this type of client, seriously for your own good you should just say screw'em while you have a chance. Because they can end up costing you more than you'll ever make off of them by leaps and bounds...

Anyhow I felt like venting about 'those people' too so theres my two cents. Take care and cheers!