Kwentong SEO Freelancer Story #3 - You Lost Your Heart On Your Job
In this episode of the SEO Kwentuhan podcast, Gab and Gelo share the compelling story of a long-time freelancer who faced a tough decision between two clients—one loyal but increasingly demanding, and another offering a better rate and opportunity for growth. Titled “You Lost Your Heart On Your Job,” the listener’s tale highlights the complexities of freelancing, from navigating overwhelming workloads to recognizing when it's time to move on for better prospects. The story underscores the challenges that many freelancers encounter, such as negotiating rates, maintaining work-life balance, and managing relationships with clients who may not always appreciate the value you're providing.
Gab and Gelo offer practical advice on handling these situations, including how to set boundaries, know your worth, and negotiate effectively. They also touch on the importance of maintaining professionalism—even when things go wrong—with the potential for future referrals or even a client comeback. The episode is packed with insights on client management, the art of negotiation, and the mindset needed to stay motivated in the face of rejection or unexpected changes in your career. If you're a freelancer navigating similar challenges, this episode offers both a cautionary tale and a roadmap for thriving in a competitive and ever-changing industry.
The episode discusses recognizing when a client relationship becomes toxic, often due to unmet expectations, poor communication, or external stressors affecting client behavior.
Freelancers should establish clear working hours, communication rules, and boundaries to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Freelancers should know their worth based on their skills and experience and should confidently raise their rates as they grow in their field. External factors like inflation can also justify rate increases.
Keeping a record of achievements and providing measurable results (like traffic improvements) can help justify rate increases during negotiations.
Freelancers should show consistent results to potentially earn performance-based pay or commissions. This can also lead to clients offering higher pay or incentives.
Rejection or termination from a client isn’t personal; it's important to maintain a positive mindset, keep improving, and be open to future opportunities.
Even if a client lets you go, maintaining professionalism and keeping communication open can lead to future opportunities or referrals.
It’s natural to expect rate increases as you gain experience and achieve results over time. Raising your rates is part of growing in your freelance career.
Freelancers should always be learning, improving, and adapting. SEO and freelancing are ongoing journeys, and staying positive and proactive is key.
The hosts encourage listeners to share their stories for future episodes and offer opportunities to receive SEO Kwentuhan merch for contributions.
The Early Days in Freelancing
In the beginning, freelancing was exciting. The freelancer took on various projects, eager to prove their skills. They worked hard, often going above and beyond for their clients.
As they gained more experience, they found a niche in SEO. They became a link prospector, helping clients build their online presence. This role opened new doors and offered opportunities for growth.
The Shift to Link Building
Link building was a new challenge for the freelancer. They had to learn quickly and adapt to new strategies. With the guidance of a mentor, they mastered the art of link prospecting.
This shift not only improved their skills but also boosted their confidence. They became a vital part of their team, contributing to the success of various projects.
Building Client Trust and Relationships
Trust is crucial in freelancing. The freelancer invested time in building strong relationships with their clients. They communicated openly and delivered quality work consistently.
As a result, clients began to rely on them for more than just tasks. They became a trusted partner, which led to long-term collaborations. This trust made the freelancer feel valued and appreciated.
Recognizing the Workload Increase
Over time, the freelancer noticed a significant increase in their workload. What started as manageable tasks became overwhelming. They realized that their dedication was leading to more responsibilities.
Despite their hard work, the freelancer felt the pressure mounting. They struggled to keep up with the demands while maintaining the quality of their work.
The Decision to Seek New Opportunities
Faced with rising stress and workload, the freelancer had to make a tough choice. They considered their options carefully, weighing the benefits of sticking with their current clients against the potential for new opportunities.
Ultimately, they decided to pursue new clients that offered better rates and less stress. This decision was not easy, but it was necessary for their well-being and career growth.
Facing Termination: A Shock to the System
Facing termination can feel like a punch to the gut. It often comes unexpectedly, leaving freelancers confused and hurt. The freelancer in our story learned this lesson when they received a sudden message that they were no longer needed.
Initially, they felt a wave of disbelief. They had put in so much effort and dedication. To be told that their work was no longer valued was shocking.
However, this moment also became a turning point. It forced them to evaluate their worth and consider new opportunities. Sometimes, what feels like an ending can lead to a better beginning.
Finding a Better Fit with a New Client
After the shock of termination, the freelancer began searching for new clients. They wanted to find a better fit — someone who appreciated their skills and offered a fair rate.
Fortunately, they received an offer that met their needs. This new client was supportive and respectful. They felt valued, which reignited the freelancer's passion for their work.
The experience taught them that not all client relationships are meant to last. Sometimes, moving on opens doors to better opportunities.
Reflection on the Previous Client Experience
Looking back, the freelancer realized that their previous client had many red flags. The workload was overwhelming, and communication was often unclear.
They learned that recognizing these signs early could save them from stress. Reflection helped them identify what they truly wanted in a client relationship.
By understanding their past, they could make better choices in the future. This experience shaped their approach to client selection.
Client Retention: The Importance of Professionalism
Professionalism plays a key role in client retention. The freelancer knew that maintaining a high standard of work was essential. They communicated clearly and met deadlines consistently.
This commitment to professionalism helped build trust. Clients who feel respected are more likely to continue working with you.
Moreover, they learned that being professional also means knowing when to walk away. If a client does not respect your time or skills, it’s okay to find someone who will.
Identifying Toxic Client Relationships
Recognizing a toxic client relationship is vital for a freelancer's well-being. Signs include constant changes in expectations, lack of communication, and feeling undervalued.
In the freelancer's case, the workload increased without any discussion. They felt overwhelmed and unappreciated, which is a clear warning sign.
Being aware of these signs allows freelancers to protect their mental health. It’s important to assess whether a client relationship is beneficial or harmful.
Setting Boundaries as a Freelancer
Setting boundaries is crucial for freelancers. It helps maintain a healthy work-life balance. They must communicate their limits with clients from the start.
This can include setting specific working hours and response times. For example, letting clients know you are available only during certain hours can reduce stress.
Boundaries also apply to the scope of work. Clearly defining what services you offer prevents misunderstandings and keeps expectations realistic.
Understanding Your Worth
Knowing your worth is essential for every freelancer. It shapes how you negotiate and interact with clients. Understanding your skills and the value you bring can boost your confidence and help you set fair rates.
Start by assessing your skills and experiences. What unique talents do you offer? How do they solve your client's problems? Make a list of your accomplishments to remind yourself of your value.
Research the market rates for freelancers in your niche. This helps you set competitive prices. If you have more experience or specialized skills, don’t hesitate to charge more.
Remember, your worth is not just about your skills. It’s also about the results you provide. If your work significantly improves a client's business, that adds to your value.
Communicating Your Worth
When discussing rates with clients, be clear and confident. Share your accomplishments and how they relate to their needs. This helps clients understand why you charge what you do.
Prepare to discuss your past successes. Present case studies or testimonials that highlight your impact. This can make it easier for clients to see your value.
If a client questions your rates, don’t panic. Use it as an opportunity to explain your skills and experience. Show them why investing in you is worthwhile.
Negotiating Rates
Negotiating can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a normal part of freelancing. Approach it as a conversation, not a confrontation. Be open to feedback and ready to explain your pricing.
When asked to lower your rate, consider if it’s worth it. If the project aligns with your goals or could lead to future work, it might make sense to negotiate.
Always have a minimum rate in mind. This ensures you don’t undervalue your work. If a client can't meet your minimum, it’s okay to walk away.
Maintaining Motivation Through Rejection
Rejection is tough for freelancers. It can feel personal, even when it’s not. However, it’s crucial to maintain motivation despite setbacks.
Start by reminding yourself that rejection is part of the journey. Every freelancer faces it at some point. Use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Reflect on the reasons for rejection. Was it a mismatch in skills or budget? Understanding the “why” can help you improve and prepare for future opportunities.
Building Resilience
Building resilience is key to overcoming rejection. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you. Share your experiences with fellow freelancers or friends who understand your challenges.
Set small, achievable goals to maintain your momentum. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. This can help shift your focus from setbacks to progress.
Consider keeping a journal of your experiences. Writing down your thoughts can provide clarity and help you process your feelings about rejection.
Finding New Opportunities
After a rejection, look for new opportunities. Update your portfolio and showcase your best work. Reach out to potential clients and network within your industry.
Use social media to connect with others in your field. Join freelance groups or forums to share experiences and find leads.
Keep your skills sharp by learning new things. Attend workshops or online courses. This not only builds your skills but can also boost your confidence.
Handling Clients Who Return After Termination
It’s common for clients to return after a breakup. They may realize your value after losing you. Handling these situations with care is essential.
First, assess why the client left. Was it a misunderstanding, budget issues, or something else? Understanding this can help you decide how to proceed.
When a client reaches out, keep communication open. Avoid being bitter. Instead, express your willingness to discuss future collaborations.
Setting New Boundaries
If you decide to work with a returning client, set clear boundaries. Discuss expectations and workload upfront. This ensures both parties are on the same page.
Consider adjusting your rates if appropriate. If the previous relationship was challenging, it’s okay to ask for a higher rate to reflect the added value you provide.
Maintain professionalism throughout the process. Even if past experiences were negative, stay positive and focused on the future.
Rebuilding Trust
Rebuilding trust with a returning client takes time. Be transparent about your work and progress. Regular updates can help reinforce trust and keep the client informed.
Showcase your strengths and how you’ve improved since the last collaboration. This can help the client feel more confident in their decision to return.
Lastly, be patient. Trust is earned, and it may take time for the client to feel comfortable again.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Freelancing is a journey filled with ups and downs. Understanding your worth is vital for success. It shapes how you negotiate and interact with clients.
Rejection is part of the process, but maintaining motivation is key. Use setbacks as learning experiences to grow stronger.
When clients return after termination, handle the situation with care. Set boundaries and rebuild trust to create a successful partnership.
Remember, every experience is a chance to learn and improve. Stay focused on your goals and keep moving forward.
Quotable Quotes
"Every time a door closes, a window opens. There will always be new opportunities ahead." – Gab
"If you’re proactive and consistently show up, your value will eventually be noticed, and the right clients will find you." – Gelo
"Continuously enhance your profile and portfolio, ensuring that when new opportunities arise, you are already ahead of the game." – Gelo
"Sometimes, it’s not the client that’s toxic, but a misalignment of expectations or poor communication." – Gab
"If a client doesn't work out, don’t burn bridges. You never know when they might refer you to someone else or come back with a better offer." – Gelo
"The best way to stay motivated, especially after a setback, is to focus on what you can control and keep pushing forward." – Gab
"Setting clear boundaries with clients from the start is key to maintaining a healthy working relationship and avoiding burnout." – Gelo
"Freelancers need to understand that knowing your worth is about recognizing your skills, but also knowing when it's time to negotiate for better pay." – Gab
What's Next
As we wrap up this episode of SEO Kwentuhan, we hope you’re walking away with some valuable insights to help you navigate the ups and downs of freelancing, client relationships, and negotiating your worth. From recognizing the signs of toxic clients to setting clear boundaries and knowing when it’s time to raise your rates, this episode has covered a lot of ground.
But here’s the thing—every freelancer’s journey is unique, and there’s always more to learn. What’s next for you in your freelance career? Are you ready to take the next step, whether it’s negotiating better rates, setting clearer boundaries, or handling challenging client situations with more confidence?
Take a moment to reflect on the lessons shared today and think about how you can apply them to your own work life.
Don’t forget to tune in to the next episode for more actionable advice, real stories, and insights to help you succeed in the freelance world. There’s always more to learn, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Keep hustling, keep growing, and remember: the best is yet to come.
Transcript Summary
00:00 - 01:24 Gab: Introduces the episode, sharing that the third story comes from a listener titled "You Lost Your Heart On Your Job." He mentions that the title seems heavy and somewhat "fishy," expressing curiosity about the story.
Gelo: Responds humorously, showing his love for his job. He then begins to read the listener’s story. The listener has been freelancing for 12 years and specializes in link building. In 2019, they were hired as a link prospector at a US SEO agency and worked under a mentor who taught them the ropes of link building. The listener explains how they moved from development work to focusing on link building.
01:24 - 02:34 Gelo: Shares that the listener worked hard and was proactive, even managing their own notifications to stay focused on the work. They mention how the listener was dedicated and went above and beyond, managing emails and other tasks even when they were not instructed to do so.
Gab: Comments on the listener's proactive attitude, adding that turning off notifications during weekends to avoid work stress shows a real commitment to the job.
02:34 - 04:08 Gelo: Explains that while the listener initially felt appreciated and even became a business partner in the agency, the workload soon became overwhelming. Despite meeting quotas, the expectations started to increase, and the relationship soured when the client began nagging the listener.
Gab: Empathizes with the listener, noting how overwhelming it can be when expectations shift like that. Gelo adds that the listener had another offer from a different client, which prompted them to reconsider the relationship.
04:08 - 05:47 Gelo: Talks about the listener deciding to move on, choosing the higher-paying client over their current one. He mentions how this shift was also influenced by advice in freelance groups that suggest negotiating for better rates.
Gab: Adds that this is a common scenario, especially in platforms like Upwork, where job offers can come unexpectedly, even when you're already employed.
05:47 - 06:55 Gelo: Shares that the listener discovered they had been removed from the project, receiving an email saying their "heart was no longer in the work." Despite the separation, the listener remained professional, thanking the client and apologizing for the misunderstanding.
Gab: Acknowledges that despite the awkwardness, the listener handled the situation with confidence. The listener has since received messages from the old client, who wants to hire them back, but the listener is happy with the new opportunity.
06:55 - 07:59 Gelo: Humorously mentions that the old client is now messaging the listener even on holidays, but the listener remains firm in their decision. Gelo reflects on how hard it can be to choose between two clients, especially when one has been loyal but the other offers better compensation.
Gab: Agrees that it’s tough to make that call, but highlights that the listener’s choice of the higher-paying client seems like a smart move.
07:59 - 09:23 Gelo: Mentions freelance groups and resources where tips on how to handle negotiations and rates are shared. He references Remit Sety’s YouTube channel, "I Will Teach You To Be Rich," which includes step-by-step negotiation tactics for freelancers.
Gab: Notes that these tips aren’t just for employees but also for agency owners who may have to negotiate service rates with clients.
09:23 - 11:23 Gelo: Introduces the next segment of the podcast, where they will dissect the listener’s story and discuss the signs of toxic clients. He asks Gab how a freelancer can recognize when a client is becoming toxic and whether it’s time to reconsider the relationship.
Gab: Draws on a previous episode discussing "red flag clients" and mentions that while it’s easy to spot red flags with new clients, it can be more difficult to recognize them in long-term relationships. He reflects on the impact of increased workload without appropriate compensation or support.
11:23 - 12:52 Gab: Discusses how agency owners need to manage increasing workloads by hiring more people or training new team members. He reflects on his experiences with toxic clients, noting that sometimes it’s not the client who’s toxic but rather unmet expectations on the service provider’s part. If you promise results (like increased traffic) but fail to deliver, clients can feel frustrated and may seem toxic.
Gelo: Asks Gab if he’s ever had experiences where a client’s attitude changed over time. Gab confirms that it often happens, especially with long-term clients, as they adapt strategies or expect more without properly communicating.
12:52 - 14:12 Gab: Elaborates that when clients work with an SEO strategy over a long period, they may adapt and change it themselves, especially if they have in-house SEO teams. This can lead to stagnation in results, which might make clients dissatisfied, even though the strategies are still effective.
Gelo: Asks why this shift in attitude should be considered toxic. Gab explains that while some changes are natural, conflicts arise when there’s a misalignment in expectations or communication. External factors, like economic conditions or other stressors, can also contribute to the growing toxicity of a client relationship.
14:12 - 16:04
Gab: Mentions external factors that might contribute to a client’s stress and attitude shift. He cites examples like economic recession or even natural disasters (e.g., wildfires in California) affecting businesses, making it essential to be mindful of a client’s external pressures and the impact these might have on the relationship.
Gelo: Agrees, pointing out that it’s important to consider what might be influencing the client’s behavior beyond just the work itself. Gab emphasizes that being aware of these factors can help prevent conflicts and better manage client relationships.
16:05 - 17:17 Gelo: Raises the importance of setting boundaries in freelancing, such as defining clear working hours and areas of responsibility. He uses the example of limiting communication to certain hours (like 9 PM to 12 AM) to avoid burnout and to maintain a work-life balance.
Gab: Adds that setting boundaries also means communicating limitations to clients. For example, if a freelancer only handles SEO or link building and not SMO or email marketing, they need to make that clear. This helps clients understand the freelancer’s expertise and prevents unrealistic expectations. He stresses that freelancers should be upfront about their strengths and areas where they might need additional support or a larger team.
17:17 - 18:41 Gelo: Gives examples of how to communicate boundaries, such as establishing maximum response times (e.g., replying within 24 hours) and setting clear expectations about holidays and time off. He shares his personal approach of using asynchronous communication—such as recorded video updates—rather than frequent meetings, to streamline interactions with clients.
Gab: Agrees with the importance of clear communication and setting proper expectations from the beginning of a project. By making these boundaries clear, both parties can respect each other’s time and avoid misunderstandings later on.
19:27 - 20:58 Gelo: Introduces the question of how freelancers can know their worth and when to negotiate their rates. He acknowledges that it’s a challenging topic, as it depends on the freelancer’s skills and experience. He highlights that the listener in the story knew their worth and confidently negotiated their rate.
Gab: Reflects on the listener’s ability to negotiate their rate and emphasizes that freelancers should assess their skills and expertise. He advises that if more than 80% of digital marketers can do a task, it might be time to raise rates. He suggests that even a rate of $50 per hour can be a fair starting point for those with a specialized skill set.
20:58 - 21:11 Gab: Further explains that freelancers should assess their skill set relative to the market. If they possess rare skills or experience, they can confidently raise their rates. He mentions that the listener’s ability to take on challenging tasks and provide high-quality work gives them the leverage to negotiate higher fees.
Gelo: Adds that understanding when to raise rates is crucial for freelancers, especially as they gain more experience and expertise in their field. He reinforces the idea that raising rates is a natural part of growing as a freelancer.
21:12 - 22:43 Gab: Discusses how to assess your worth as a freelancer, advising that you should look at your experience and compare it with the rates of others in your field. He suggests checking LinkedIn or Indeed to see what others with similar experience are charging.
Gelo: Adds that it’s important to know your market value, which can vary by region. For example, rates in the US or Canada may be based on yearly salaries, while in other countries, it's more common to charge hourly or monthly.
Gab: Continues by highlighting that inflation and other economic factors (like rising gasoline prices) might affect the rates clients are willing to pay. If the cost of living rises, you could use this as a reason to justify raising your rates.
22:43 - 24:24 Gelo: Emphasizes the importance of documenting the value you provide as a freelancer. By keeping a record of your achievements (such as improvements and results), you can use this information to justify a rate increase during negotiations. He suggests that for those new to the industry, even if you don't have many years of experience, you can still compile a report of what you’ve contributed over the past year or six months. This will give clients a reason to consider raising your salary.
Gab: Adds that it’s important to set clear milestones and expectations with clients, especially when discussing rate changes. He stresses that negotiations shouldn’t be spontaneous; instead, approach them with data and reasoning about your contributions and ROI.
24:24 - 25:13 Gab: Talks about clients who might offer performance-based pay or commissions, particularly when you demonstrate consistent results. He stresses that showing value through clear and effective reports (monthly, quarterly, yearly) can lead clients to naturally offer raises or commissions.
Gelo: Emphasizes that if you’re consistently doing great work, clients will notice and may voluntarily offer better pay or incentives.
25:13 - 27:31 Gelo and Gab: Discuss how to stay motivated despite rejection or termination from clients. Gelo shares a story of someone who learned to move forward quickly after being let go, understanding that new opportunities will come along.
Gab: Advises having a growth mindset and continuously improving your profile, portfolio, and testimonials on platforms like LinkedIn or Upwork to increase your chances of success in the future. He stresses that rejection isn’t the end, and your skills can always be improved.
Gelo: Adds that you should always remember that rejections or terminations might not be about you personally. Other external factors, such as a client’s changing business goals or the global economy, might be at play. Keep a positive attitude and stay motivated.
27:31 - 29:46 Gelo and Gab: Discuss how to handle situations when a client comes back after a bad experience. Gab advises keeping communication open rather than burning bridges. Even if a client rejected your proposal or terminated your services, it’s still worth maintaining a professional relationship, as circumstances could change.
Gelo: Adds that even though some clients may seem like a red flag, they could be a valuable connection or referral source in the future. Networking with former clients can bring unexpected opportunities, and even if they shift focus (e.g., from SEO to paid ads), they may still refer you to others in need of your expertise.
29:46 - 31:12 Gelo: Emphasizes the importance of keeping composure in client interactions, especially when things aren’t going well. Even if you feel frustrated or upset, maintaining a professional demeanor can make a significant difference in the long run. Gab agrees, noting that this professionalism helps you avoid burning bridges and potentially leads to future opportunities.
Gelo: Wraps up by sharing how clients may later refer you to others or bring you back after realizing the value you provide, especially if they’ve shifted their business focus.
31:12 - 31:58 Gab: Talks about how after a year of working with a client, it’s natural to expect a rate increase. He points out that as you gain experience and results, raising your rates is part of growing in your freelance career.
Gelo: Echoes this sentiment, reinforcing that everyone should strive for financial growth and continually improve their skills to increase their earning potential.
31:58 - 32:29 Gelo: Thanks listeners who have sent in their stories, whether they are freelancers or agency workers, and invites others to submit their experiences for future episodes. He mentions that listeners can send stories to SEO Kwentuhan’s page or to Coach Gab directly for a chance to receive SEO Kwentuhan merch.
Gab: Wraps up by reminding listeners that SEO is a personal journey, and whether you're learning from others or reading up on best practices, it’s all about continuous learning. He encourages everyone to stay positive and keep tuning in.
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