Most freelancers will shudder at this thought, especially newly-minted freelance copywriters like myself. But it is a necessary evil for the greater good.
But let me make this clear – I don’t like turning down jobs.
Not just because of the lost income, but I also feel rather guilty. Opportunities don’t come easy these days because honestly, times aren’t great. I often feel like I have let myself down. Maybe I should work doubly hard and cram every job I can get into my schedule.
Yes, in the Malaysia Boleh spirit, maybe I should do just that.
But then again, there is only so much I can do before the quality of my work starts to suffer. While pitching for new business and engaging new opportunities are critical for survival; I do not want to let down my existing clients either.
I have written something call the ‘Mamak Stall Syndrome’ a while back. It was about how local food stall operators often forget about you as soon as you take a seat, because they’re busy pulling in more customers.
The thing is I already have a few good clients sitting in my shop. And for me, keeping them happy is as equally important as finding new clients.