To think he wouldn’t have tried this is I was a man

[Imbloodyannoyed]

Name changed and changed a few details as work related.

I run a business. A small part of my work will sometimes include content writing/editing for clients as a pre-arranged thing bit on the whole it’s provided.

I’ve been chasing a client for some content to lets say drop into a report for some time. Have offered to edit it on their behalf but it’s something that they need to provide.

Sent it to me this evening... written on a piece of paper and photographed it with “if you can just type this up and then edit it (it’s about 3000 words).

I’m not their fucking admin assistant. I’m not a typist. I think my judgement is clouded by other behaviour towards me from this man but Aibu to think he wouldn’t have tried it if I were male.

You say there is backstory so no doubt that informs your view.

But from what say it sounds as though my DH runs a business very like yours. He gets this all the time. His experience is of people trying it on and taking advantage. Trying to get something extra. I’m not saying you are wrong about your experience though. Just that the behaviour you describe could just be the result of “grabbiness” rather than sexism.

You don’t need to find him a typist. You might find if you stop holding his hand through every situation then he’ll stop with the ridiculous requests. Just a firm “thank you but this needs to be typed”. Then if he asks you to do it again say “no sorry that’s beyond my scope”. You can provide a really good service by being firm and professional. You don’t have to always be helpful and eager to please. I’ve been in a similar situation to you and a change of attitude towards these types of clients is really beneficial.

Send it back with a message saying ‘Please return by.....if this is to included. Our services do not incorporate copy typing’. This would niggle me too, quite rightly, because it’s cheeky as all get out!

How did it go? Did you tell him to shove off?

I pretty much sent a version of the ideas above, and while I’d love to share the response I’m a bit worried about it being outing.

But think along the lines of “of course you can type, I don’t see why I should pay any extra, etc etc). All of this is fine - We get this sort of thing a lot. The hilarity was that in the same breath requested help on another project which I was thrilled to turn down as I’m too busy currently.

Well in way if an update - no longer a client (and I’m so relieved!)

Result👍🤣

So glad to hear you told him no!

Well done, OP!