If you want to get assignments, make it a newsletter . I was too busy with paying work to bother writing up some freebie newsletter for prospects who were too cheap to pay for my advice, gosh darn it. Now is when you send a thank-you note to let the client know that you love and cherish him, and look forward to the day when you can be together always. It's polite, and it's a gentle reminder that you exist. Most IPs give up if they haven't received feedback from a prospect in, say, six months.
Former clients deserve a little more time.
But I've learned that after several months, it's best to let go, unless I really want the client and know that they would be great for my business. We'd love to hear your feedback about this column, or put you in touch with Linda Formichelli if you like. You may also like to see her biography . All rights reserved. The 1099 name and logo are trademarks of 1099 Magazine .