How do you behave when a customer “checks” you?

Question

Startups

Did a hack recently. The customer first gave one task, arranging a whole circus. It took 2 weeks to develop a proposal for it.
In the end, it turned out that the customer specifically gave the task “close to real” and rolled out completely different requirements at the final meeting. Turns out he was testing me. I “passed the test”, but, to be honest, professional pride could not stand it and sent the customer through the forest.

And how do you behave and what do you do when the customer “checks” you?

Answer 1

For your money, any whim. If he pays, then let him check at least three times.
Why couldn't pride take it? Although it would be correct for him to warn that this is a test task.

Answer 2

Were you paid to "verify"? If yes, then where is the pride. You have been ordered. You have fulfilled it. Now you know more about the customer, and he knows about you. Apparently, the customer has already been burned and checked the timing / quality.
Nobody is forcing you. If the client likes your approach and you like the client, then it's a good working relationship. Relationships based on trust are the best.

Answer 3

The customer did not pay for the time spent. That this is a test task did not warn.
After receiving a “no” answer to further cooperation, the customer began to try to manipulate and even threaten.
So the 6th sense did not deceive and was not denied in vain.

Answer 4

You did the right thing if he didn't pay. You need to pay for the work, not for the implementation. Or maybe its pilot implementation will be in a year. Something will not work out for someone and the deadlines will be pushed back.
In my opinion, a test without payment should not take more than 1 day, and a freelancer / hack should receive payment once a week if the conditions of the customer are met.

Answer 5

Anything for the customer's money.