One of the most important things freelancers should remember–as should any employee–is to BE PROFESSIONAL. Complete your work properly and before or on the deadline, always be accountable for your mistakes, keep everyone in the loop–you get the gist. However, not all freelancers keep professionalism in mind, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I have been less than professional during my first few months as a freelancer. One of the habits that some freelancers are prone to is to simply disappear without a word of warning to his or her clients.

Yep, believe it or not, it does happen, though for various reasons. It could be that the freelancer was displeased with the terms of the contract and didn’t know how to rework the agreement for a more favorable setup in his or her favor, and opted out without consulting the client. The freelancer could also have the impression that since he or she isn’t holding down the job on a full-time basis that it’s something that could be easily shrugged off. Worst of all, the freelancer might just think that the client is the most horrible person on Earth to be avoided at any cost; the experience of working with such a client may be so unpleasant that the freelancer just wants out, never having to deal with the client ever again and reputation be damned.

It’s probably a lot like the fantasy of telling you’re boss that have HAD it and that you never want to see his face again; it’s satisfying, but ultimately leaves a poor impression of you. Some people already think that freelancers are flaky, and putting on a disappearing act will ruin things for everyone else. It will only make people think twice about hiring freelancers again, and at the same time, you’ll be seen as unprofessional and unreliable.

Before taking on a job, you have to figure out whether you are capable of performing the duties and if you can submit the project on time. If you have too much on your plate, then you shouldn’t take on any extra work. If it’s the client itself that’s the problem, however, you might want to take the honest approach and let them know exactly how you work and what your schedule is. If things don’t improve, however, you can write to them to let them know that you’re unable to complete the job and direct them to another freelancer who can finish their project (don’t forget to give the freelancer ample warning about the client!). Another option? Suck it up and just get through the work. At least you can be grateful for the fact that you don’t have to deal with them face to face on a daily basis. Just complete the job as quickly and flawlessly as possible to minimize the amount of time you have to spend with them.

Just remember that it’s always best to end things on a positive note. You may need to work for that client again in the future (like when you’re really desperate or a better person is in charge of the project) and you will also need them to give you glowing recommendations should other clients ask you for references.