Small Changes, Big Impact: How Freelancers Deal with Revision Requests

In the latest episode of the sqillNChill podcast, host Laila delves into a topic that many freelancers in creative fields are all too familiar with: the infamous request for “a small change”. What often starts out as a harmless request can quickly turn into a time-consuming process that pushes the boundaries of the original project scope.

The problem of “small changes”

Laila explains how seemingly minor revisions can add up to a significant amount of time. These additional, often unpaid hours not only lead to a loss of productivity, but also undermine the professional value of the freelancer. By offering free revisions, you set a dangerous precedent that encourages clients to constantly expect freebies.

Strategies for dealing with revision requests

Set clear boundaries

To counteract this problem, Laila recommends:

Transparent contracts with a clearly defined scope of work

Setting a limited number of revisions

Avoiding “scope creep” by clarifying project parameters at an early stage

Effective communication

A key element in dealing with revision requests is proactive communication:

Discussing the client's vision in detail before the project begins

Obtaining a final, approved version of the terms of reference

Immediately addressing change requests that go beyond the agreed scope

Educating and empowering customers

Laila emphasizes the importance of educating customers about the work process and the associated costs:

Clarify that additional revisions require time and effort

Encourage specific and measurable change requests

Emphasize your own expertise

Innovative solutions

As a creative solution, Laila suggests offering revision packages as an additional service. This allows clients to flexibly make additional changes as needed, while freelancers are fairly compensated for their work.

The episode offers valuable insights for freelancers who want to maintain their professional boundaries while also maintaining positive customer relationships. By implementing these strategies, creatives can manage their time more effectively and increase their professional value.