There's a VERY fine line between helping a client through a bind, and being abused by an individual with a tight budget.
The former may stay with you for life. The latter will use you until you say no.
It is very rare that it's a large company who needs the largesse of a small entrepreneur to stay in business, though.
I see this in treatment of individuals as well as costs. Many clients assume they can bully and abuse consultants. "We're your biggest account, so please work the next few weekends and we'll help you get the next project." You can't earn a trusted relationship without a first project, and the slippery slope starts.
The key for any small business is actively screening your prospects. It's hard to turn away any business, but if you screen for "How is this person to do business with" it can save aggravation along the way.
The former may stay with you for life. The latter will use you until you say no.
It is very rare that it's a large company who needs the largesse of a small entrepreneur to stay in business, though.
I see this in treatment of individuals as well as costs. Many clients assume they can bully and abuse consultants. "We're your biggest account, so please work the next few weekends and we'll help you get the next project." You can't earn a trusted relationship without a first project, and the slippery slope starts.
The key for any small business is actively screening your prospects. It's hard to turn away any business, but if you screen for "How is this person to do business with" it can save aggravation along the way.