Unresponsive freelancers can disrupt project timelines and cause unnecessary stress. Forhopp provides several tools and resources to help clients address and resolve such issues effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to managing unresponsive freelancers.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Verify the Freelancer’s Activity
- Log in to your Forhopp account and navigate to the project dashboard.
- Check if the freelancer has logged in recently. You can view their last active status in the Messages section.
- Look for any updates or deliverables shared via messages or the project timeline.
Step 2: Send a Reminder Message
- Use the Forhopp Messaging System to contact the freelancer.
- Send a polite but firm message asking for updates, e.g.:
“Hi [Freelancer’s Name], I hope everything is going well. I wanted to check in on the progress of [Project Name]. Please provide an update by [specific date or time].”
- Mark the message as “Urgent” if the platform allows this feature.
Step 3: Check for Technical Issues
- Ensure there are no system issues on either side, such as undelivered messages or file upload problems.
- If you suspect a technical problem, contact Forhopp’s support team for assistance.
Step 4: Use the Freelancer’s Alternate Contact
- If the freelancer has provided alternate contact details (email or phone), consider reaching out through those channels.
- Respect their privacy and only use this as a secondary measure.
Step 5: Set a Deadline for Response
- Clearly communicate a final deadline for the freelancer to respond, e.g.:
“If I don’t hear from you by [specific date/time], I will need to escalate this issue.”
Step 6: Escalate to Forhopp Support
- If the freelancer remains unresponsive, go to the Help & Support section of your Forhopp dashboard.
- File a complaint or request Forhopp’s intervention in resolving the issue.
- Provide evidence, such as:
- Screenshots of unanswered messages.
- Project timelines and milestones not met.
Step 7: Consider Reassigning the Project
- If the issue persists, you may need to reassign the project to another freelancer.
- Go back to your project posting and re-open the bid to find a more reliable professional.
Step 8: Leave Feedback
- Once the issue is resolved, leave honest feedback about your experience. This helps other clients on the platform make informed decisions.
Preventing Future Issues with Freelancers
- Clear Communication from the Start
- Set clear expectations regarding deadlines, milestones, and response times when hiring.
- Regular Check-Ins
- Schedule weekly or bi-weekly updates to monitor progress and avoid last-minute surprises.
- Use Milestone Payments
- Tie payments to specific deliverables to encourage timely updates.
- Review Freelancer Ratings
- Hire freelancers with consistent positive feedback and high reliability scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the freelancer is entirely inactive, escalate the matter to Forhopp Support with relevant evidence, and consider reassigning the project.
Yes, payments held in escrow can remain unreleased until deliverables are completed. Ensure this complies with Forhopp’s terms of service.
Forhopp’s dispute resolution team will review the case, including messages and project timelines, and mediate to find a fair resolution.
Yes, you can cancel the project after notifying the freelancer and attempting to resolve the issue. Follow the cancellation guidelines outlined on Forhopp.
If the project is under escrow, you can request a refund. Forhopp will process the refund after evaluating the case.