Discussion on:

Five tips for handling hostile clients

I was lucky initially when I started to work in the computer industry to be exposed to many people and companies working in a third party test company. It exposed me to the pitfalls and provided me with contacts that helped me throughout my career.

The first step in taking on an assignment is to investigate the company. The telltale signs of ugly politics can be rooted out if you really look hard at them 90% of the time.

Read trade papers, the newspaper, talk to past employees, talk to current employees outside of work etc. etc.

The second step that covers the last 10% is go over the requirements with a fine tooth comb. ASK QUESTIONS! Document everything.

If after doing all this you have doubts, don't.

thank you so much, these tips were really helpful.Noble.

I find that when following tip #2 it works well to copy my manager on the e-mail - even though he/she is already aware of the problem. I don't use a blind copy either.