VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

Mike Harrison · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 5:09 am Post subject: The return of Lila and her lies

A few months back I posted the story of a client; a studio in another land, far, far away, who seems to make deceit part of every project. As an enticement for a project, before payment was ever discussed, Lila said "We can do advance payment." I thanked her, saying that wasn't necessary, but payment within 10 days would be appreciated. The morning of the session, she emailed to say that payment wouldn't be coming prior to the session as initially offered after all, but did say that payment would come within 10 days. After 10 days had passed, I politely followed up and was told that their payment policy is 30 days after the session. Payment was ultimately made within 30 days. (Edit: Payment was ultimately made within 30 days only because I pointed out to her that she had twice before given me payment information that was 'less-than correct.')

Last week, a new project came up several days after payment was due for another job we did after the first one. Due to more stalling on their part, I ultimately had to insist on the amount already owed PLUS advance payment for the new session only 2 hours away. That payment came via PayPal, and we did the session.

Yesterday (Sunday) they emailed to ask my availability for a session this morning. Due to the time difference, the time of the session - 8am EST - is their end-of-day. I replied 'yes,' and they replied with a confirmation.

Just a little while ago (now two hours before the confirmed session), Lila emailed to say the client has had to postpone the session, asking if we can reschedule for tomorrow morning.

There isn't an ice cube's chance in hell that I'd ever get a cancellation fee from them. Based on the 'script' they sent (a dozen disconnected words and phrases; seemingly almost nonsensical pasted into the email) with the 'confirmation,' I don't think this is a real job at all. I'm pretty sure this is another test/manipulation to see how many times I'll reschedule before questioning.

Giving the benefit of doubt, I'll reschedule for tomorrow. But if another wrench is thrown in my direction, I'm tempted to just quietly move on without another word to them.

I'm always open to comments/suggestions. Thanks!
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Mike
Male Voice Over Talent
I have taken leave of my sensors.

bobsouer · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 5:14 am Post subject:

Mike,

My policy is "you only have to work for a jerk, once."
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Mike Harrison · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 5:29 am Post subject:

todd ellis · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 6:33 am Post subject:

i have always agreed with firing clients for cause.
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Bruce · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 8:00 am Post subject:

I might let them off the mental hook for a cancellation fee, but not much else. Unless cancellation fees are discussed in advance or they haven't worked in a more professional environment where they're usually enforced, few are expecting them.

The shifting payment date business is definitely a red flag.

B
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I'm not a Zoo, but over the years I've played one on radio/TV. .

Yonie · CM Joined: 31 Aug 2011 Posts: 906

Life is too short.

Diane Maggipinto · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 10:08 pm Post subject:

Deirdre · Posted: Mon Nov 21, 2011 11:02 pm Post subject:

...of jerks?
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Philip Banks · Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2011 12:19 am Post subject:

Have her killed and damn her impudence.

Mike Harrison · Posted: Tue Nov 22, 2011 3:57 am Post subject: