It’s good to know how to spot scam buyers and time wasters. That’s why I’ve gathered a list of red flags that every seller should look out for when selling on Fiverr.
1. Bought Basic package then ask for Premium service.
Some buyers do this because they know most sellers would bite the bullet and complete the premium package rather than cancel the order.
Please don’t fall for this. I wouldn’t even recommend that you send the buyer a gig extra. Just cancel the order right away. If you’re scared that the cancellation will affect your account, contact Fiverr support and ask them to cancel it for you.
2. Unclear instructions with unrealistic expectations
The most annoying thing is when a buyer places an order but doesn’t provide clear instructions. Then when you ask for more information, they hit you with something like, “Just surprise me!”.
It’s like these buyers think that Fiverr freelancers are mind readers.
Most times, when you try to ‘surprise‘ these buyers, you end up in a revision loop instead.
3. Threatens negative review
Scenario 1
Buyer: I just placed my order. Make sure you deliver by 6 pm this evening!
Seller: Sorry, my turnaround time is four (4) days, as stated in my description. It’s impossible to deliver by 6 pm today. Do you want to cancel the order and search for another Fiverr seller?
Buyer: It should not take 4 days! If you don’t deliver my order by 6 pm this evening, you’ll get 1 star!
In cases like this, contact Fiverr support and do two (2) things:
- Report the buyer for breaking the TOS.
- Ask them to cancel the order without affecting your account.
Scenario 2
Buyer: I let my boss hear the voiceover that you delivered. He doesn’t like it. Let us cancel the order.
Seller: I am in a contract with you, not your boss. I have delivered the voiceover according to YOUR specifications. I will not cancel the order.
Buyer: What??!!! Cancel the order now, or else you will get 1 star!!!
In a case like this, you should do two (2) things:
- Report the buyer for breaking Fiverr’s TOS.
- Prepare to respond to the negative review with facts.
4. Wants to dictate your prices.
These types of buyers usually send you a message along the lines of “This service should not be so expensive.” OR “I will not pay so much for this.” OR “Other sellers are selling cheap. Why are you so expensive??”
Ignore these types of buyers. They do not respect your time nor value your work.
5. Will tip you if everything goes well.
If a buyer says, “Can you do it for half the price? I will tip you the balance if I love what you deliver.” RUN!!!
Even if they love what you delivered, they can say they don’t. These buyers often will leave negative reviews as well, to make it seem like they genuinely weren’t pleased.
So, you’ll get less money, plus a bad review.
Please do not ignore these Fiverr red flags.