If you've ever had trouble collecting payment from a client, this video is for you. Mike Monteiro, co-founder of Mule Design Studio gives his provocative (and sometimes profane) tips for protecting yourself as an independent contractor. His audience is a group of web designers at a San Francisco design conference, but freelancers of all stripes should take heed when negotiating assignments.

His advice boils down to two things: 1) Establish clear expectations, explicitly stated and agreed to by both parties in a contract, and 2) have confidence if yourself to negotiate from a position of strength.

Here are some other highlights:

• Don't start work without a contract (otherwise you lose any negotiating leverage you had).
• Don't blindly accept the client's terms.
• Anticipate negotiation, but don't back down on important stuff. This includes: intellectual property rights (any rights you're selling are yours until they pay you for them); kill fees; and liability.
• Be confident when speaking about money. Know your rate, and ask for it.
• And if expectations aren't clear or compensation isn't sufficient, don't be afraid to walk away.

Another good piece of advice: if you encounter rough waters with a client, don't try to patch things up over e-mail. Pick up a telephone and sort it out.

2011/03 Mike Monteiro | F*ck You. Pay Me. from San Francisco Creative Mornings on Vimeo.