If I'm in the wrong category, please redirect me. While looking at the VA information that I have recieved from this forum, I was wondering if any of you have your clients in short or long term contracts?

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Linda Henderson, Outsourcing Outlet

Hi Linda, the contracts I use depend on the circumstances of the work and the nature of the relationship with the client. I don't work on retainer though so I don't use 'long term' contracts that tie my clients in for a period of time but I do have language in my contracts that allows for things like rate increases and other changes in my business that might come up later on down the road.

For clients who are coming to me for a single project I base my contract on the proposed schedule for that particular project.

I hope that helps!

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It depends, if you are a new contractor the buyers might be hesitant in providing you big projects and might want to test your skills before loading you with big projects. Initial small projects helps the buyer to judge the candidate on all the parameters. Once you build a good relationship with the client you can easily get big projects.

Linda,

I do have both. Many of my retainer clients are long-term however I do have a few short terms ones for those in a seasonal business who need help only at certain times of the year. On top of that I have project clients too.

For my long terms, the contract language states a 3 month commitment minimum and I allow for rate increases. For my short term, the language is the same however I put in a clause to reflect the break in work as well as projects are taken on availability of scheduling.

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Lee Drozak

Linda,

I do not have retainers clients because I've never had a reason to pursue this avenue. I've often thought about it, but as I'm talking to clients about how to assist and such I've decided to step away from it. I do have a retainer contract drawn up..in case the situation does arise but has yet to.

I've heard good things about retainers and works for many people. Good Luck.

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Leona Martin
A Plus Admin Services

I don't have retainer clients either and I have what I call an agreement rather than a contract. I use the same agreement for clients with ongoing work or one-time projects. I might tailor it a little for a specific client if, say, it's a large project and I give them a discount, but basically it's the same contract for everyone. And no one is locked into a specific amount of time.

Wish you the best!

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Pam Deyerle - Transcriptionist in Richmond, Virginia (16 years)
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