Freelance discovery calls are meant to open doors, not raise red flags. But as more freelancers use online booking links, scammers are finding new ways to misuse them. In this episode, I share the warning signs to look out for, simple ways to verify suspicious bookings, and what to do if a discovery call just doesn’t feel right.
Listen to the podcast episode below, watch it on [Youtube], or scroll down for the summary!
Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!
Discovery calls have become a normal part of running a freelance business. Whether you’re using Calendly, Microsoft Bookings or another scheduling tool, they make it easy for potential clients to find a suitable time to chat.
Most of the people booking these calls are genuine. But recently, I’ve heard about a few situations that reminded me it’s worth staying alert.
These scams are still relatively rare, but being aware of them could save you time, frustration and potentially something much worse.
When a discovery call isn’t really a discovery call
One of the most common stories I’ve heard is someone booking a discovery call, only for the freelancer to join the meeting and discover the other person is actually there to sell to them.
Instead of being a potential client, they’re using your booking link to get access to you and launch into a hard sales pitch.
Not only is it frustrating, but it also takes up valuable time that could have been spent working with genuine enquiries.
Trust your instincts
A more recent example came from someone in my own community.
They’d had several discovery calls booked by the same person, which immediately felt a little unusual. Then a document was shared that couldn’t be opened without entering an email address.
At that point, there were enough red flags that it was worth stopping and investigating before continuing.
Whenever something feels slightly off, don’t ignore that feeling.
Do a little research first
If your instincts are telling you something isn’t quite right, spend a few minutes checking who you’re dealing with.
I would usually:
- Google their name.
- Search their email address.
- Look them up on LinkedIn.
- Search for reports on Reddit or other forums if anything seems suspicious.
- If they’ve provided a phone number, check whether it’s been reported as spam.
Often you’ll find nothing at all, which is reassuring. But occasionally you’ll uncover reports from other freelancers who’ve had similar experiences.
It’s okay to ask questions
Just because someone books a discovery call doesn’t mean you have to jump straight onto it.
If something doesn’t add up, it’s perfectly reasonable to send a quick email first.
Ask a few questions about:
- Their business.
- What they’re looking for.
- Why they want to book a call.
- What they hope to achieve.
A genuine client will usually be happy to answer.
Scams are evolving
I suspect this won’t be the last time I talk about scams on the podcast.
We’re already seeing fake job adverts becoming more common, and I’m starting to hear about similar issues within the freelance world too.
The more we share these experiences, the easier it becomes for other freelancers to spot warning signs before they waste their time or put themselves at risk.
Stay cautious, not fearful
The important thing to remember is that these situations are still uncommon.
The vast majority of discovery calls are booked by genuine people who are interested in working with you.
This isn’t about becoming suspicious of every enquiry. It’s simply about taking a moment to pause if something doesn’t feel right.
Trust your instincts, do a quick bit of research, and don’t be afraid to ask a few extra questions before jumping on a call.
If you’ve come across any unusual scams or suspicious enquiries recently, I’d love to hear about them. The more we share what’s happening, the more we can help protect each other as freelancers.
Discover The Freelance Lifestyle
Order my book: The Freelance Lifestyle: Your Friendly Guide to Starting a Freelance Business
Follow me on Instagram
Follow me on Bluesky
Email: hello@emmacossey.com
Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group
Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership.
Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community.
