Change "copywriters" to "consultants" and just about any resource for consultants works equally well for copywriters because most of us wear both hats.

I read 7 Ways To Learn If Your Clients Love Or Loathe You by Sheryl Kravitz in RainToday.com today (now that sounds redundant) and thought it was a very useful, valuable read. (You will, too, I’m sure.) Here’s a quick summary:

• Check your acccount receivables - happy clients pay on time (this one is a favorite!)
• The tell-tale sign of receptivity - your emails and phone calls get returned promptly
• Navigate the social & political landscape - are you making traction with all the organizational players or just your contact person?
• Take notes - think ahead, be a constant source of good advice and ideas
• Monitor your outbound communications - how quickly does your e-newsletter get opened, how many comments on a recent blog
• Ask for testimonials - ask for them during the flush of the lovefest, write ‘em yourself and ask your client to review and sign-off (don’t forget to be humble)
• Share your strategy - be generous with your words and deeds, even without an immediate payback

Read the entire article here.

Maven’s Maxim
Pay it forward, pay it back, and by all means, get paid on time.