project fee is not paid, you still own the rights. And, technically, the client can't use your copy without your permission. This technique doesn't guarantee you'll get paid. But it is something you can use as leverage when an invoice become long overdue. Years ago, my invoice to an ad agency client went more than six months overdue. I finally reminded them that I still owned the creative rights to the copy and may have to notify their client to stop using my material. (A series of brochures.) It was hardball. But it worked. A few days later, I got my check. So those are some ideas on how to get paid promptly. But what if the worst happens? You call, email, call again, but don't get your check? In Part 2 of this series , I'll explain a step-by-step strategy that works well. 5 Fundamental Credos of Effective Client Management What's the easiest way to make your clients WANT to give you additional work, or refer new business your way? Doing your best work is part of it, but there are actually five fundamental credos that should form the foundation of your freelance practice. These are indeed basic credos, but by no means are they [...] Simple Negotiation Tactics for Freelancers I'll admit it. The first time I tried to negotiate my price with a client I was nervous. I didn't want to lose the project! I felt a little like Oliver Twist holding out his soup bowl and