In our somewhat foolhardy line of work, it’s easy to feel that everything is all lopsided in the client’s favor. The field isn’t level; they have all the leverage. They’re big, we’re small. They are a giant corporation, or university, or trendy startup, or someone with a big office. We’re just a lone writer, a designer, a […]
Should you give up on this whole freelance thing? Just quit this foolishness? And go back to being gainfully and properly employed? Maybe. Maybe not. I’m guessing if you’re asking this question it’s because things aren’t going like you planned. Maybe it’s about money. Or lack thereof. Or drudge work. The constant ‘uncertainty’ of it all. Maybe it […]
Don’t discuss this with your friends who have regular jobs. They won’t get it. Or, they will think this is unfair. But never mind that. You and me, as free-range and self-sustaining independents, we cannot think like those salaried folk. We are not beholden to the unfortunate economics of being an employee. Here’s our rule: Set things up so you can […]
Tara asks: A good client asked me to handle a sideline project on a quick turnaround. Since it was a little different from what I normally do for them, I quoted an hourly rate. They asked how long it would take. I told them 1 to 2 hours. They said okay. But in the end, […]
From Matthew: “I work as a technology director at a large school system here in the East, but will be leaving soon to pursue a more travel-oriented career. It has all been in the works for months. Initially, I wanted to focus on technology in school building projects, which is something that I have experience in doing, […]
Ann writes: “I’m in the beginning stages of trying to go out on my own. But there are two big chains around my neck. I’m currently employed at a small agency as a director-level specialist, with more than 15 years in my field. I’ve a had a few stealth meetings with outside clients to develop […]
Lisa writes: I have a good client I have worked with steadily for years. I thought we had a good relationship. Then, for some reason, she stopped using me. When I call, she says “I don’t have anything for you right now.” No explanation. This has gone on for months now. I’d like to write […]
Right away, of course. Bill early, bill often. If the assignment is of a certain size, you bill even before you start. (“Only $1800 is required to begin. Nothing else is due until you receive the text.”) I must be the only freelancer in history who took too long to send a bill. Like a dope, I would wait a […]
Last weekend, I was chatting with a young web designer. She hated her job, but felt stuck. “I’m much too introverted to freelance,” she said. “I could never go out and sell myself.” Whoa, I thought. That’s an interesting perception. And so utterly backwards. If anything, freelancing is the ideal career for us card-carrying introverts. […]
There seem to be two different ways to ring the bell in this business. Two different paths to glory and riches for us solo practitioners. The choice depends entirely on how you’re wired, how your brain works, what delights your soul. And I’m convinced it matters. Get this right, and it can make a huge […]