Topic: retainers

I have a client that has been dragging their feet for about four months and hasn't given me any work to speak of (therefor no $$$). I want to charge them a retainer or send them a letter of disengagement. Before I make any bad moves can someone tell me an alternative way of dealing with this client to get them motivated?

presuming you *havent* got a contract stating that you are solely dedicated to them, I would contact them and let them know that you are about to embark on a major new contract that will mean that your availability will be limited. Therefore you are letting them have first option considering they were a prior client.

Basically let them know that you have priorities and unless they would like to pay you a retainer, you have greener pastures to walk... then the ball is in their park

If they don't get the jist of that I would move on, unless your under a contractial obligation.

~Vp~

Thank you VP! Under frustration I generally think self-destructively and your post has given me a positive angle to work with this client!

I always get at least a $250.00 retainer/deposit before I even talk to them.