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I think it is your responsibility to make sure you dedicate yourself 100% when you're working for a client. That means not being carried away reading emails rel
by michaelmcmillan 11y ago
I think it is your responsibility to make sure you dedicate yourself 100% when you're working for a client. That means not being carried away reading emails related to other matters when you're on the clock.
With that being said, we just charge a general fee each month called "Administration & maintenance". It's the equivalent of 4 hours consulting. That usually covers any time spent not directly impacting the work for the client.
- pi3141592 11y agothanks for your reply. I liked the idea of a "Administration & maintenance" fee, and it sounds very reasonable to charge for a few hours of "emails & phones" stuff.. thanks 1. Do you charge the normal rate for that or a discounted rate? 2. Do you not accept clients who do not accept this type of monthly fee ? in other words - how important is this to you ?
- saluki 11y agoI would recommend adding this Admin time in to your hourly or project rates. Most clients aren't going to be happy with an added admin/maint. fee. If it's built in to your rate it's easier for everyone to handle and you won't have them questioning your invoice for an extra 3 or 4 hours of time. Plus if it's built in you'll worry less about tracking time for emails. Keep it simple, you need email to stay in contact with clients/getting new work so just check it a few times per day especially if feel it's becoming a problem. Responding fast takes a little time, but will keep your clients happy. Another great option is to hire a VA to review your emails, respond when they can and forward you the important ones. Maybe setup a mail@ or support@ or project@ email for clients to use instead of your specific work email.