Hey there! I've got quite a bit of experience in software development, over 25 years to be exact, but I'm relatively new to freelancing. I've started a 6-month contract with a client for designing their website. I initially mentioned I'd be available to come on-site when needed, mainly for some domain and network stuff. However, things have taken a turn; they built a desk for me and now expect me to be on site daily. They asked for a schedule, and although I said I could arrive around 9:30, I've been coming in a bit earlier. Recently, I was told that if I'm late, I need to let someone know, and I got some feedback about my lunch break being too long, insisting I notify them if it exceeds 15 minutes. It feels like I'm being monitored constantly, which is really breaking my focus. I want to maintain a good relationship but I'm concerned that if I comply now, it will only lead to more demands later. Has anyone else faced this? Nothing in my signed contract mentions this oversight, and I don't want to jeopardize the working relationship but also want to hold my ground. What's the best way to handle this?
5 Answers
Honestly, I’d just have a straightforward conversation with them about the expectations. Let them know they hired you as a contractor, and that means you set your hours and work location unless otherwise specified in the contract. If they push back, stand your ground and assert your role!
Yes! If they can’t respect that, you might need to reevaluate your working relationship.
Honestly, as a freelancer, you should stand firm. If they start treating you like an employee without the benefits, just remind them that you’re there to fulfill a contract and not to clock in and out like a full-time employee. Keeping your boundaries clear is key, and if it continues, let them know they can hire someone else for their on-site needs.
Totally agree! You don’t want to become their go-to for every little thing. Set your boundaries right from the start.
Exactly! If you keep bending over backwards, they'll just keep asking for more.
If they insist you come in every day and stick to specific hours, it’s time to negotiate a new rate or potentially look for new clients. You’re a freelancer, not an employee. They need to respect that, or find someone else willing to comply with their demands. Don’t let them take advantage of you!
Spot on! If they're treating you like an employee, you deserve to charge them like one.
Exactly! Don’t let them define your worth. You’re in control.
You’ve got to have some self-respect here! There’s nothing in your contract that requires you to follow strict hours. Just be open and honest with them. Let them know you value your independence as a contractor and prefer to work on your terms. Being upfront can prevent misunderstandings later on.
For sure! That’s something I had to learn the hard way. It’s all about clear communication.
And if they push back, remind them they’re hiring a contractor for a reason!
If they continue to ask you to follow these ‘core hours’, just ask for the employment benefits package. Freelancers have more autonomy, and if they want to control your time, they might be misclassifying you as an employee, which could come with serious legal implications for them. Educate them gently on this distinction!
Great point! If they’re treating you like that, they may end up being responsible for more legal stuff than they realize.
Totally! They need to understand that freelancing means working on your own terms.
Absolutely! A proactive approach is the best way. Just keep a cool head.