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My uncle said to always get half up front, I thought it was rude

He told me this five years ago when I started my web design work. I ignored him and did a big job for a bakery in Portland, billing them all at the end. They took six months to pay the full $2,500 and it hurt my cash flow. Now I see he was right and I ask for 50% before I even open my design software. How do you all handle the first payment talk without sounding pushy?
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3 Comments
kevinallen
kevinallen1mo ago
Ever have that moment where you realize an older relative actually knew what they were talking about? Your uncle gave you solid advice. I just make it part of my normal process. When I send the project proposal, the 50% deposit is clearly listed as the first step. It's not pushy, it's just business. Clients expect it now.
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blairm77
blairm771mo agoMost Upvoted
How do you even start a project without a deposit first?
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dianawilson
Wait, you guys are only asking for 50% up front?
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