Will Work for Food (?)
Do you barter with clients? Do you find it difficult to determine whether or not you are participating in a fair trade?
If you’re bartering with BIG clients who are offering you exposure – you may have to drudge through a bit more than what seems reasonable.
People who can offer you exposure can also try to hold that over your head. Don’t forget – exposure is huge. Clients USUALLY know that.
A firm resolve and some negative experience is all I’ve needed to learn what I’m worth.
I’m still new to the game of earning money for freelance work. But, I’ve grown accustomed to bartering services.
I like working for food. I’ve got some great clients who are wonderful to work with, and who often treat me to fabulous meals.
I work for food with them, and that is our agreement. But sometimes it gets tricky. Sometimes I’m not sure if one of us might be giving more than the other. Sometimes I think it would be easier to work for the money because money is so clear-cut.
This is where AWESOME communication skills are required. Accepting someone else’s services as trade for your own can get tricky. You should set a contract as you would for a paying gig and steer clear of taking extra favors from the client.
Set it in stone. Detail what is expected of you and what you will be paid (hamburgers, shoelaces, Rice Krispee treats – whatever).
Be wary of extra favors because your job is to help the client. You can easily get pinned as that kid who expects a free dinner every time he walks in. It causes much un-needed awkwardness and can be a great way if burning bridges.
When working for food — do consider what cuisine it is. I mean you are what you eat, right? So you need to be sure you are associating with clients and companies who share a common vision and will lead you to more prosperous ventures.
If each bite doesn’t advance your career – it ain’t a fair trade!
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