Tips For Signing Contracts For Creatives

By Kimberly Cole


Creatives have the peculiar challenge of not working in institutions. Unlike companies or institutions that have legal and HR departments, talents are on their own. This sometimes leaves them at the mercy of clients offering the jobs where contracts are skewed to their favor. Contracts for creatives should capture particular important aspects to safeguard their interest. These aspects should be present whether you are the one presenting the contract or signing an already drawn one.

Clearly indicate the terms of payment. It is hectic to ask for payments after you have done your part and the client is enjoying your work. You also have financial commitments to meet. Endless emails might never get answered or will be followed by promises. You need to clearly indicate a schedule that comes with penalties if it is not honored.

Demand a non-refundable deposit as commitment for your time and booking. The truth is that you have to block the calendar on particular dates to accommodate the client even if a more lucrative deal comes up. This is the point of demanding commitment in form of non-refundable deposit. The client also makes all the effort to ensure that everything will go as planned. It teaches clients to also treat you and other talents with seriousness.

Late payment and refund policy should be included. This is a clause that many talents miss. Clients must understand that you have something to do with money and that his is your full-time engagement. Further, time for you must not be seen as an endless continuum. You have a schedule that needs to be kept. In case there is delay, you should have the right to cancel the contract or reschedule it to a time that you are more comfortable with.

Be clear about the actions to be taken in case the project is postponed or cancelled. Clients must not operate as if you are available anytime he or she wishes. You should be seen as someone who has stuff to do and not just waiting for clients to order you around. In unreasonable circumstances, the refund should not be made. In case of rescheduling, it should be done at your convenience. It is the canceling party that should pay for the emanating expenses.

Retain copyright to your work. Every creative must realize that it is more than getting paid. Your image, voice and words are your assets despite receiving money for a gig. The client has a right to use them only up to the extent that you agree. In case you take photos, their use must be compensated and approved. This also happens to videos and audios. Some mutilation could bring down your future career.

There are risks in working as a creative. They could be on your health, body, in the course of travel, preparing the project or natural calamities. Include a clause in the contract that shields you from such risks. You cannot be held responsible for matters that are beyond your control. The terms of resolution must be reasonable and mutually agreed.

The treatment you get as a creative will depend on the value you assign yourself in the eyes of a client. Comb through the contract to ensure that it is not skewed to disadvantage you. Compensation must be commensurate and help you advance your career other than undermine or take advantage of it.




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