Escalation.
FIRST, ESTABLISH WHY
A cash flow problem A dispute about the work An oversight Refusal
Those need different responses.
FOR A CASH FLOW PROBLEM
A payment plan is frequently better than nothing.
Agree it in writing, with dates.
FOR A DISPUTE
Resolve the dispute specifically.
An unaddressed complaint becomes a reason not to pay.
FOR AN OVERSIGHT
Keep reminding. Reach a different person if necessary.
FOR REFUSAL
Decide what the debt is worth pursuing.
WHAT YOUR OPTIONS ARE
Continued pressure Stopping any ongoing service A formal demand Legal action Writing it off
ON LEGAL ACTION
Take advice on what is realistic and what it costs.
For small amounts it frequently costs more than it recovers.
WHAT TO DO WITH THE RELATIONSHIP
Decide whether you will work with them again.
WHAT TO LEARN
Whether your terms or your vetting need changing.
