Theda at the Crayon Writer asks an interesting question. How much do you charge
when you do work for friend and family? Although Theda's post is specific to freelance writers, I believe the problem exists for anyone who offers a skill, product, or service.
My husband, who has been a computer specialist for years, is always being asked to do computer troubleshooting by family members and friends. I have another friend who makes craft items that are in demand. Her friends often ask for a discount or even a free sample.
In her post Theda has made some excellent suggestions for dealing with the problem of how much to charge family and friends. I have a few additional ideas.
On the other hand, if you suspect that the friend or family member is just going to take advantage of you OR it isn't even a close friendship, I would consider saying "no" or offering no discount at all. Sadly, there are some people who will latch on to you just to try and take advantage of you.
This problem is just one example of why it is important to set boundaries with friends and family. I have one friend who doesn't work and frequently calls me when I am working. She always seems to forget that just because I'm home it doesn't mean that I'm available.
"What are you doing?" She asks.
"I'm at work." I reply. "I'll call you back when I get off work."
By stating that I'm at work, it reminds her that even when I'm home I could be working.
Another tactic to set boundaries might be to give the friend or family member the full bill for your services, but to show the discount that you've given them on that bill. Even if you've done the work for free, handing them a bill showing a charge and then the balance as being paid off can't help but impress them that you have provided something of value.
Working for friends and family can be very tricky. Have you faced this situation? If so, what have you done about it? Perhaps you've been a friend or family member who got services or products from a friend or family member. Leave a comment and let me know how you worked it out.
When I do work for friends or family, it depends on the nature of the project. I have done a brochure for my dad's company, but got paid my full freelance rate becauses it was a corporate project which included a great deal of photo-retouching, layout, design quandries and coordination. But just the other day, my friend asked me for a quick shower card design that I was able to pull off in about 30 minutes, so I didn't charge her for that. If a friend asks me to put together a powerpoint slide show for their wedding, I consider that part of my gift to them. Other times, I'll drop my rate for friends or people I know well enough. In other words, it all depends on the situation and relationship!
Posted by: rachel | July 27, 2007 11:21 AM | Permalink to Comment