Yes, you can propose changes to the deliverables after agreeing to collaborate, but it’s important to handle the situation professionally and with clear communication. Unforeseen circumstances can arise, and both you and the filmmaker want the collaboration to succeed. Stir makes it easy to address these situations through its messaging feature, allowing both parties to work together and find a solution that works for everyone.
Here’s how to approach proposing changes to deliverables effectively:
When Can You Propose Changes?
Changes should only be proposed if there are valid reasons, such as:
Unforeseen Circumstances: Personal emergencies, technical difficulties, or delays outside of your control.
Creative Challenges: If the agreed-upon deliverables don’t align with the filmmaker’s vision or your creative capabilities.
Time Constraints: If overlapping commitments or unexpected delays make it difficult to meet the original deadlines.
Scope Adjustments: If the project’s scope changes after the collaboration begins, requiring a reassessment of the deliverables.
Proposing changes should always be a last resort after exploring all other options to meet the original agreement.
How to Propose Changes
If you need to suggest changes to the deliverables, follow these steps to handle the situation professionally:
1. Communicate Promptly
As soon as you realize a change may be necessary, inform the filmmaker via Stir’s messaging feature. Prompt communication shows respect for their time and allows for adjustments to be made early.
Example:
“Hi [Filmmaker’s Name], I wanted to reach out regarding our collaboration. Due to [reason], I’d like to discuss a small adjustment to the deliverables.”
2. Explain Your Concerns Clearly
Be transparent about the challenges you are facing and why the changes are necessary. Avoid vague explanations and focus on providing clear and honest reasons.
Example:
“I’ve encountered a scheduling conflict that may affect my ability to complete all the deliverables by the original deadline. I’d like to propose an adjustment to ensure I can deliver high-quality work.”
3. Propose a Solution
Offer a solution that minimizes disruption to the project and maintains the quality of your work. This could involve revising deadlines, reducing the number of deliverables, or modifying the scope of the content.
Example:
“To accommodate this, I’d suggest extending the deadline for the Instagram Reel by two days while still delivering the stories on time. Alternatively, I could adjust the concept of the Reel to simplify production and meet the original deadline.”
4. Be Open to Feedback
The filmmaker may have their own ideas or concerns about the proposed changes. Be open to discussing alternatives and finding a compromise that works for both parties.
Example:
“Please let me know your thoughts on this adjustment, or if you have any other suggestions to make this work.”
5. Confirm the New Agreement
Once you’ve agreed on the changes, summarize the updated deliverables, deadlines, or terms and ask for confirmation.
Example:
“Just to confirm, I’ll deliver one Instagram post and two stories by [new deadline]. Let me know if any further adjustments are needed!”
Tips for Successful Negotiation
Be Professional: Approach the conversation respectfully and avoid placing blame.
Stay Flexible: Be willing to compromise and work collaboratively to find a solution.
Prioritize Quality: Emphasize your commitment to delivering high-quality work, even with adjustments.
Document Changes: Keep a written record of any agreed-upon changes for future reference.
When to Avoid Proposing Changes
While it’s okay to propose changes in certain situations, avoid doing so if:
The changes could have been avoided with better planning or communication.
The filmmaker has already made significant adjustments to accommodate your initial requests.
The changes would negatively impact the filmmaker’s timeline or goals without a valid reason.
In these cases, it’s better to find ways to honor the original agreement or seek additional support to meet your commitments.
Conclusion
Proposing changes to deliverables after agreeing to collaborate is possible, but it should be done thoughtfully and professionally. Use Stir’s messaging feature to communicate your concerns, explain your reasoning, and work collaboratively with the filmmaker to find a solution. By addressing the issue early and offering constructive alternatives, you can maintain a strong working relationship and ensure the success of the collaboration.
Clear communication and mutual respect are key to navigating these situations effectively!