What is a consequence of not having terms and conditions agreed with a new client?

Not having terms and conditions agreed upon with a new client can lead to the risk of working for free. This is because without a formal agreement, there is no clear understanding of the scope of work, compensation arrangements, or expectations from either party. In this situation, the consultant may provide services and not receive payment, as there is no binding contract to enforce payment obligations. Establishing clear terms and conditions is vital to ensure that both parties are aligned on deliverables and remuneration, thereby protecting the consultant's financial interests.

While the other options highlight various potential issues that could arise in the absence of an agreement, they do not capture the immediate financial implications as directly as this consequence. For instance, overcharging typically occurs with a predetermined cost structure, and higher commission rates are usually part of explicit agreements. Similarly, immediate hiring without repercussions implies a lack of necessary checks and balances that agreements typically provide, but it doesn’t directly address the risk of unpaid labor that can occur without any agreed terms.