Two days ago, I met a client from hell.

There is supposed to be a long conversation snippet here in which I blew off steam about how badly I was treated, the lack of respect displayed for another human being, and just plain ugly Singaporean behaviour. But I will not dwell on it, because it was a learning experience. I learnt that while people do not need to earn my respect, they do actually have to work at keeping it.

Suffice it to say that she did none of these:



If you want to avoid the label of “client from hell”, here are some tips:

1. Listen to your professional provider. When your writer, artist, or technical advisor takes the time to advise you, listen to the person. That’s what you’re paying for. Professionals know what they can and can’t do, and they understand the limitations involved.

2. Be clear from the start what you need in your project. Detail your requirements. The little things count immensely towards a perfect result.

3. Remember providers aren’t mind readers. Don’t make providers guess or assume they know what angle or take you want on your project. Present a crystal clear image of what you want, even if you believe the provider should already know.

4. Put it in writing. If you and the provider carry out IM, PM or telephone conversations (in other words, any communication other than email), summarize the points of those discussions. Write them in an email so you both have a clear reference and written record.

5. Ask questions. Make sure you get the answers. At the same time, allow your provider to ask questions, too. Give clear answers that are helpful.

6. Be respectful. Treat your provider as you would want to be treated. It sounds cliché, I know. Avoid condescension, arrogance, or ordering about. Providers work with you, not for you.

7. Lastly, be polite. Don’t insult a provider’s integrity, skills, or abilities. Don’t be snappy, either. There is no need for that. If something isn’t working, just politely so and keep personal attacks or subtle messages out of the communication.


That's 7 things she wasn't. However she did insult my skills and abilities, amongst other things. And the best part is she says I started it. Good lord.

Never mind. Lipsticks on pigs.



In other news,

I turn 33 today.

I went and re-read the proposal I made for Chase so many years ago. 13 episodes, with plot A, B and C outlines. A seasonal arc, over which people change. A summary of season 2 and one of season 3 and a liner about a possible final season 4.

It has an overarching theme. It is driven by a plot. The content is contemporary. The characters are attractive, clearly identifiable, down to earth, and interesting. The storylines for each episode touch on subjects many Singaporeans would consider close to their hearts. Each episode's conclusion ties the main plot and subplots together in a way that crosses intellectual and emotional levels of understanding.

It was not too much to ask from television, but rather a lot to ask from the clowns who run television.

I've decided, I'm pretty good. The pilot script for Chase won an award didn't it? Some people don't think it deserved it, but everyone is entitled to have stupid opinions, as the bitch client from hell amply demonstrated.


My birthday wish: I am going to turn Chase into the book like I always said I would. I must. It won't be easy turning visuals and episodic stories into a novel, but

I must do something with what's left of my life.

I must publish or perish.

I don't want to be a magazine editor forever.