First, try to communicate with the client and understand their concerns. If there was a misunderstanding or mistake on your part, try to rectify it. If the client is still not satisfied, consider offering a partial refund or redoing the work.
If the dispute cannot be resolved through communication, consider using a third-party platform or mediator to help resolve the issue.
Yes, clear communication and setting expectations from the beginning can help prevent disputes. Make sure to discuss project scope, timeline, and payment terms with the client before starting work. Have a written contract or agreement that outlines these details and have both parties sign it.
If you have a contract or agreement in place, you can take legal action to recover payment. Consider sending a demand letter or hiring a collections agency. However, legal action should be a last resort and it's important to weigh the costs and benefits before pursuing it.
Aside from clear communication and written agreements, consider using a platform that offers dispute resolution services. Platforms like Upwork and Freelancer have built-in dispute resolution processes that can help resolve issues between clients and freelancers.