As a product development agency, my company helps other companies, big and small, design and develop digital products. Clients generally approach us with a concept that we grow into a product over several months and sometimes years.
Regardless of who you work with, always get to know your client at the start of the relationship. Dig deep into the project. When relevant, like when dealing with startups, spend time with the company's founders.Ours is 12 questions and should take about an hour or less of work for the client. Sometimes, we will ask for a credit report, but we tend to say,"This job is not for us," if it reaches that point because there is likely a deeper trust issue.After you've evaluated clients, you will likely find that the way you approach the project itself can help to avoid payment issues. For example, here are a few steps that you can take to keep in touch with clients.• Payment Reminders:Send a thank you note or acknowledgment immediately after payment is received.