Make the freelancing process work for you and your freelancer so that everyone is on the same page.
1. BE CLEAR. Before reaching out know what you want to have done, make a realistic timeline, know your budget or range and the freelancers fees so that you are connecting with a freelancer in your price point.
2. STAY ON POINT. For your consult, keep grievances to a minimum. Focus on your company, product or service, challenges, budget, timeline, remaining details and next steps. This will help you know if you are a right match. Follow-up with a re-cap email.
3. NO GHOSTING. If you, as the client or the freelancer aren't feeling it, reveal it ASAP. Don't be afraid to say "No". Ghosting anyone is disrespectful and can affect your reputation.
4. NEGOTIATE. Rates are negotiable. Projects can be scaled to meet a clients budget or grow as your budget grows, however don't try to reduce a fair price for your project at the onset.
Valuable Freelancer Freebies:
-Free consults. Unpaid time
-Overtime. You don't get charged for it
-Taxes. 30%-40% of their fee is going to pay taxes.
-Health insurance. They cover their own insurance and health expenses
-Time Off. No paid time off
-Expenses. Ubers, internet tools and apps, lunch meetings come out of pocket
For Freelancers:
-Rate Sheet. Provide your rates and general estimates before a consult to set expectations.
-FAQ. Provide the info the client needs: rates, clients you work with, payment, lead time, timeline, specialties.
Rates are determined by level of experience, expertise, efficiency and demand. They are business owners with families who support themselves. Their time is valuable including phone, email, estimates, proposals and contracts.
Response time is critical during all phases of your project. No ghosting allowed. A freelancer is deeply immersed in your business success and in delivering as promised, so treat them with the respect that they deserve for a rewarding and ongoing successful business relationship.
Erika Burke is the Founder of Scribe415 - A Creative Agency, and a freelancer.
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