Sometimes the collection process, getting paid, is as much work as the job itself. 

So you put in your time, your hard work, and finished your translation job, editing or writing... turned in the work to the customer's satisfaction, and then submitted the invoice.  Great.  But now it's a month later, and no payment is coming. ...?

Maybe the company confesses to financial issues, or maybe now they suddenly have "quality issues" with your work?  "Quality issues" coming a month later = just means they don't wish to confess their financial quandry.  They are broke.  (Quality issues should have been raised immediately, not a month later.)  Either way, it's the same result for you: no payment.  In some cases, you might get a partial payment, but that still isn't fair to you.  I recently got $50 for a $270 job, and only after 3 months of considerable collection efforts.  Not a great deal for me.

As the financial crisis sweeps the globe, this is an all-too-familiar scenario for freelance workers.  So, how can we cope in this new world of wobbly finances?  Certainly, one main problem is that many companies wish to pay invoices in 30, 45, or even 60 days.  That leaves a lot of room for problems.  In 60 days, the company might not have any cash on hand.  It's best to get your money sooner, and here is one idea that has been catching on:

Try offering a discount to your clients if they will pay a portion up front, and the balance within 7 days of delivery.  For example, if a job would normally pay $1200, then offer to do it for $1000 if they will pay a $300 deposit up front and $700 within a week of delivery.  Money in hand is worth a nice discount.  You have your $1000 in your pocket and no more invoice concerns.  The client has saved $200 as well.  This is a happy mix that has been getting popular this year.

It works from the other side too:

If you are a small company who cannot afford higher rates, you might need an incentive to get qualified translators to work with you for a reduced rate.  Offer them a deposit and/or very quick payment for the job.  7 days or 14 days net is very appealing to freelancers.  Try it, and you might find it easier to get and to keep good freelancers on your payroll.

As for the collection process, if you are stuck in a 60 day mess.... Just remember to stay calm.  Call the client and talk it out.  Stay professional and try to get your money, or a portion, by civilized means that will work for all parties.  If that fails, try throwing your coffee mug against the wall and screaming a haiku of curses.  It clears the mind and relieves stress.  And next time... don't be in this situation again.  

Cheers.

Manuel Catano

Los Angeles USA

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