"Can You Start Now?" — The Freelancer's Guide to Navigating Verbal Agreements

It's a scenario every freelancer has faced: a promising project, an enthusiastic client, and the seemingly innocent question, "Can you start now while we get the contract sorted?" When the request comes from a friend or a trusted contact, it's tempting to say yes. After all, you don't want to seem difficult or slow things down. But as many seasoned freelancers have learned the hard way, starting work without a signed contract is a risky proposition.

This is not just about protecting yourself from clients who might not pay. It's about setting clear expectations, defining the scope of work, and ensuring that both you and your client are on the same page. A contract isn't just a legal document; it's a roadmap for a successful project.

The Red Flags: When to Pause and Proceed with Caution

Even with the best intentions, verbal agreements can quickly lead to misunderstandings and disputes. Here are some red flags to watch out for:

• No Request for Basic Information: If a client hasn't asked for your full name, address, or other essential details, it's a sign that the contract process hasn't truly begun.
• Vague Promises: Phrases like "we're working on it" or "it's in the pipeline" are not a substitute for a signed agreement. Without a clear timeline for the contract, you have no guarantee of when—or if—it will materialize.
• Pressure to Start Immediately: A client who pressures you to start work without a contract may not fully respect your professional boundaries. This can be a sign of future problems, such as scope creep and unrealistic expectations.

How to Handle the "Can You Start Now?" Conversation

So, how do you navigate this conversation without damaging your relationship with the client? The key is to be polite, professional, and firm. Here's a simple script you can adapt:

> "I'm really excited to get started on this project, and I appreciate your trust in me. To ensure we're both protected and on the same page, I have a policy of not starting any work until we have a signed contract in place. I'm happy to review the contract as soon as you have it ready."

This approach accomplishes several things:

• It sets a professional tone: You're not being difficult; you're following a standard business practice.
• It protects both parties: A contract is for the client's benefit as much as it is for yours.
• It puts the ball in their court: You've made it clear that you're ready to go as soon as the paperwork is in order.

The Power of a Down Payment

In some cases, a client may have a legitimate reason for a delay in the contract process. If you're comfortable with the client and the project, you can offer a compromise: a down payment.

A down payment serves as a sign of good faith and provides you with some financial security while you wait for the full contract. You can frame it like this:

> "I understand that the contract process can sometimes take a while. If you'd like me to get started right away, I can do so with a down payment of [amount]. This will allow me to dedicate my time to your project while we finalize the details of the contract."

The Takeaway: Your Business, Your Rules

As a freelancer, you are the CEO of your own business. It's up to you to set the terms of engagement and protect your interests. While it may feel uncomfortable to push back against a client's request, remember that a contract is the foundation of a healthy and successful freelance relationship. By insisting on a signed agreement before you start any work, you're not just protecting yourself; you're setting the stage for a project that's built on trust, clarity, and mutual respect.