4 Reasons Why You Need a Contract

Legal Protection

First and foremost, a contract provides you legal protection. Typically, a contract will outline the steps that each party must take in the event of a dispute or a disagreement, whether that be mediation (a fancy word for “talking it out”), litigation (going to court), or anything in between. The contract is the MOST important tool for you in protecting yourself from unnecessary legal consequences, so make sure the language outlines exactly what you want in terms of that protection.

Clarity For You AND the Client
An effective contract sets up clear and concise expectations for you and the client. For example, in a live event contract, are you provided a break? Will the client provide a chair and/or table? What time are you expected to begin your shift? In the case of a contract for day-of-event goods, will the client pick up or are you expected to drop off? How many revisions will you allow the client to request? What happens if the client doesn’t give you their seating chart information by the deadline? All of these questions can (and should!) be answered in the language of your contract, to provide peace of mind for both you and the client.

Professionalism
A well-drafted contract adds a sense of expertise and competence to your small business. A contract is an extension of your brand and communicates to the client that you are a legitimate business owner. You’ve undoubtedly worked hard to establish your brand, and your contract is a great way to show it off outside of Instagram or your website!

Builds Trust Between You and Your Client
Your contract is another tool to forge a great relationship between you and the client. A contract demonstrates your attention to the relationship and communicates that you care about the relationship between you and the client and want to ensure that it stays positive and beneficial for all parties involved. Your contract also gives the client peace of mind that their desires are effectively memorialized in writing, and top of mind for you. 

I hope you learned some useful information in these tips. I’m always open to more ideas for what you want to see in future newsletters, so if you’ve got something in mind, shoot me an email and I’ll add it to my list!