Lori's comment on yesterday's post got me thinking . . . why did I get so worked up about my client's procrastination? I was working for them, not vice-versa. I did everything I was supposed to do, when I was supposed to do it. The time crunch was their fault. If the proposal hadn't been completed on time it would have been their fault, not mine.
So I guess what really upsets me is the disregard for my time. The lack of understanding that their procrastination had a big impact on my weekend. I didn't want to spend my weekend checking my email and fretting when I didn't see the missing piece of the puzzle in my inbox. I didn't want to cut short my errands yesterday because I got a text message saying the information had finally been sent. But I did, because I was keeping up my end of the bargain. So maybe instead of feeling angry, I should feel proud that despite being treated like my time didn't matter, I still did what I had to do to help my client succeed.
And next time, I'll crack the whip a little harder and hold them to their end of the deal.
About Me
- Amie
- I have more than 10 years of experience as a writer and editor. A quick study with an eye for detail, I partner with companies in any industry, identifying and appealing to their unique target audience. Visit my website for more about my freelancing business!
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5 comments:
Wow! I actually caused someone to ponder? That's power I'm not ready to wield! LOL
Very good reasons for being upset, Amie. Excellent reasons, in fact. I still don't think it's up to you to get them on track. I think it's up to them. Now that you know they're prone to disregarding your time and not delivering when they say they will, you can go forward with this plan - let them know you'll need the work before 5 pm THURSDAY because you don't work on weekends, which means you don't check email on weekends. If they have a deadline, it's up to them to make sure their own part of the equation is completed in enough time to allow you to do your side of it properly and without pulling a Sunday-night all-nighter. Take it from someone's who's been there and who's waited through her freakin' vacation for someone who never called - put boundaries on your time. They don't own you. You own your own time. They're paying for the privilege of whatever time you're willing to give them.
I'm willing to bet that giving them a heads-up on say Tuesday of the prior week about your weekends being booked, you'll get some action from them.
Good advice . . .
What I really like about this post is how you turned your anger around. How we look at any given situation is our choice.
That being said ... I agree with Lori. Boundaries are necessary. Disorganization on their part doesn't mean hurrying at the last minute on your part. Once they know your boundaries, they'll work with them. Basically, it's putting the responsibility in their lap and giving you what you need to do the work.
Small Footprints
http://reducefootprints.blogspot.com
Did they ever get the info to you, Amie?
Yes, at 5:30 Sunday evening. I uploaded it Monday morning.
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