[fayellen]

I read on here all the time about problems with staff but what about problem clients.
I'm getting a bit fed up with one who seems to think she can just pay me whenever she feels like it and is one of the moodiest people I have ever met, it was fine at first but now she's given up work and is at home most times when I am there. 
I realy want to give her up but can't think of an excuse also with the payment situation I have to make sure I am fully paid up before I leave or I may never get it and yet I would like to give notice.
I'm stuck what to do one week she is as nice as pie and I like her again then she's as moody as hell and I find it uncomfortable being around her.
The pay is the thing which annoys me most and I guess I just want to give her up but can't find the right time.
Any suggestions please!

[dianegreenwood]

hi fay

Ask yourself how much effort it would take to replace her and if you would rather put in the effort to replace her than put up with her moods and bad payment, then get rid and spend the time you free up finding a new customer.

I know that sounds easy, but you really can pick and choose your customers, otherwise why be self employed?

There's a huge demand for good reliable cleaners, so if you have a great reputation then you'll be fine.

Oh and if she owes you money then arrange a time to pop round with the key and pick up your money - like a ransom exchange but not said explicitly  

Best of luck

Diane

www.freshlymaid.co.uk

[fayellen]

Thanks Diane I hadn't thought of the key exchange. will do 

[Robert Parry]

Hi Fay,

I agree with Diane, especially the bit "like a ransom exchange but not said explicitly".

But be very aware that to carry it out would be illegal!

Non payment, should be pursued legally through the courts if it gets that far.

Regards,

Rob

[stevef78]

hi guys this might sound a bit mad but what is "key exchange"?? thanks steve

[lesterM]

Have you tried Direct debit/standing order via the bank. Tell her you are putting all of your clients on it. If need be mutter something about discount.
DDs have a guarantee system, and you can now alter it as required.

[cml]

As you are running  a business you might want to send her a letter stating the amount outstanding and when it was due to be paid.  If you have a computerized accounting system then all the better send her a statement of accounts stating that you reserve the right to  charge interest for late payments (state an amount or percentage charge on the outstanding amount.  This might spur her into paying you up not to increase the amount already owed.
Otherwise you will be better off ending your arrangements and pursue her via the courts.

Holding keys in exchange for payment!!!!!!!!! not recommended but there is nothing wrong in saying "I will drop the keys off and would like to collect my payment at the same time, is that alright with you". 

Good luck

[dianegreenwood]

Hi Guys

Just to clarify, I never suggested that keys would be withheld for payment, but that telling her you'll go round with the key and pick up a cheque works really well.  There's no reason not to get payment if she's there then.  I've never had one not pay in these circumstances, there is no suggestion of threat in any way.

If she isn't in, don't put the keys through, just call and arrange a convenient time to "drop the key off and pick up a cheque".  If she wants you to put the key through the door, tell her that you always prefer to give the key back personally because otherwise your key insurance would be invalid,

Hope that helps

Diane

www.freshlymaid.co.uk