Freelancing is not just about talent and professionalism — it's also about communication skills with clients, which play a huge role. Most freelancers will confirm this easily. Sometimes, just one phrase can trap you in a situation that's hard to escape from later. Especially if you're a beginner and don't yet know what should and shouldn't be said to clients.
Of course, every freelancer wants to keep a client, but is that desire worth the difficulties you may face later — and the damage it could do to your reputation? After all, clients are different: some will ignore what you said, while others will gladly remind you of your own words and promises.
To help you avoid uncomfortable situations, here’s a list of phrases you should never say to a client.
1. I can do anything you need.
It's tempting to promise a potential client you’ll do whatever they ask — just to win the project. But such reckless phrases can make experienced clients suspicious: no one person can do absolutely everything. Or worse, the client may ask you to do something you have no idea how to handle.
Sure, you can always delegate tasks to another professional — but only if you’re sure of their quality and deadlines. Otherwise, it will damage your image and harm your reputation.
Offer only the services you can actually provide. That alone will save you a lot of trouble.
2. Yes, I can lower the price!
Around 80% of clients try to negotiate a discount before closing a deal. In some cases, it’s fine to compromise — for example, if it’s a long-term client or a quick job. But most of the time, you should stick to your pricing and avoid giving in.
3. Sure, you can pay me later.
Learn this early: if a client comes to you for services, they should be prepared to pay for them. If they’re talking about possible delays from the start, it’s likely they don’t actually have the money — and you may never see it.
Always work with prepayment and define payment terms clearly. Freelance platforms offer secure contracts for this exact reason — to protect you from such issues.
Sure, hard times happen. If a long-time client needs a little flexibility, that’s different. But don’t offer delays to someone you don’t know well.
4. No problem, I’ll include that in the project.
This is a favorite "game" among many clients — adding more and more features to a project, expanding its scope significantly while keeping the same price.
Never allow this to happen. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a dragged-out project and a pushy client who overwhelms you with new demands.
5. Sorry, I don’t do that kind of work.
You shouldn’t claim you can do everything. But don’t tell the client flat-out that you don’t do something either.
The best approach is to recommend someone who can help. Everyone wins: the client saves time, your colleague gets a job, and you gain respect and future referrals.
Clients and colleagues will remember your help and return the favor.
6. I had this one client once…
Many freelancers, especially beginners, share stories about past clients — often negative ones. Talking about annoying or difficult clients might feel harmless, but it paints you in a bad light.
The current client may wonder what you’ll say about them later. They might even relate to the behavior you’re criticizing — and take offense.
7. Yes, you can call or message me anytime!
Always define your working hours clearly in your agreement. Otherwise, you risk being contacted at inconvenient times — like a late-night call or constant weekend messages while you’re relaxing with family.
That’s not just annoying — it can cause tension and lead to rudeness on both sides.
To prevent this, let your client know upfront when they can reach you. If they’re reasonable, they’ll understand that freelancing doesn’t mean being available 24/7.
8. I really need this job.
Everyone wants to benefit — especially clients. Even the most decent client might take advantage if they sense your vulnerability.
If the job is really important to you, don’t admit it. Instead, offer a small discount — the client will feel like they’re getting a deal, and you’ll likely get the job.
9. It’s your fault — you made the mistake.
These situations happen — the deadline gets missed due to the client’s actions. But don’t throw blame around.
Instead, calm them down. What’s done is done. Use this as a learning moment — for both of you.
If the client tries to blame you, remind them that you clearly explained the workflow and deadlines at the start (hopefully you did!) and followed them precisely.
10. I’ll finish the project as fast as you need.
Never — and I mean NEVER — make this mistake and trap yourself in tight deadlines!
Always add extra time to your estimate. You need room to review everything thoroughly — and life is unpredictable. Remember: “Better safe than sorry.”
FINAL THOUGHTS
Communicating with clients is one of the most important parts of freelancing. It determines how your collaboration goes. The right words can build trust — and sometimes save you from serious consequences.