Is the Project Worth My Time?
One of the hardest aspects of self-employment is pricing projects correctly. We can’t always follow a magic formula or set standard, and it’s often beneficial to price projects on a case-by-case basis. Still, there’s no fool-proof method for getting it right, and we sometimes undercut ourselves.
I’ve been a freelance writer for more than six years, and honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever master the pricing game. My biggest obstacle is determining whether a project is worth my time. I’ve responded to ads that sounded pretty clear cut and simple. But once the potential client sends the guidelines and requirements, it’s an entirely different story. Now comes the tricky part….estimating the amount of research, writing, and editing involved, which ultimately determines whether the price is fair and whether I’ll accept the assignment.
Telecommuting Tips: Post Your Goals
I once read that the best way to succeed with anything in life is to set realistic goals for ourselves. Establishing short-term and long-term goals ups our motivation, which is something we need. Whether we’re trying to start and run a home based business or accomplish personal achievements, making a goal sheet is the first step.
I’ve had numerous goals throughout my life. Six years ago I made the decision to become a freelance writer. A year later I resolved to pay off my credit card debts and start an “adult” savings account. Three years later I started working towards home ownership. And this past January, I made plans to take my freelance business to the next level.
Tackle Issues Early and Avoid a Big Problem
I’m one of the world’s biggest procrastinators. But this time, I think procrastination has bit me in the butt big time. As a freelance writer I depend on my laptop, scanner, fax, and printer. There are documents to print, pages to scan, and contracts to fax - work at home professionals know what I’m talking about. And because we rely so much on technology, we’ve got to keep the machines in our home office up-to-date.
I say all of this for one reason - my all-in-one printer/scanner/fax/copy machine died this week. Being in a serious jam doesn’t describe my situation. I’ve had this machine for more than six years, and considering how technology is constantly changing, I anticipated this day.
I’m mad at my trusty machine for obvious reasons - but I’m also upset with myself. The machine has been on its last leg since the beginning of the year. If I had dealt with this problem back in January, I wouldn’t be in this predicament. I had more than enough time to learn my options, make price comparisons, and plan the purchase. But like always, I kept putting off the inevitable, and my printer eventually said, “no more.”
Unfortunately, a basic and inexpensive printer doesn’t meet my needs. Aside from a four-in-one option, I need wireless capabilities. As a planner, I hate sudden, spur-of-the moment purchases - especially when I have to dip into my “just in case stash.” Maybe this will teach me how to respect warning signs and deal with problems before they get out of hand.
Why Can’t I Unplug?
I never understood how some people can go on vacation and work. My ideal of the perfect getaway doesn’t involve deadlines, work, or clients. Rather, it’s a time and place to unwind mentally and have fun. But everyone’s situation is different. And for some, going on vacation sans work is an option they can’t afford.
I have worked on vacation before - twice. Believe me, it was no picnic. But I can’t blame anyone. This was the result of biting off more than I could chew and poor time management. I’ve gotten better over the years, and I’m now able to take off for a few days or a week without leaving anyone in a lurch. Now if only I could muster up the strength to leave my computer at home.
Is the Customer Always Right?
Even before I was old enough to hold a job, I heard the popular adage, “the customer is always right.” This five letter phrase didn’t have real meaning until I started working in retail. I was 16-years-old, and it was my first job. I worked part-time at a clothing store in the mall. And from my first day on the job, my manager drilled into my head, “the customer is always right - no matter what.”
“No matter what?” In other words, overlook the fact that some customers return obviously worn clothes and shoes. And ignore the fact that some will manipulate discounts by claiming they found a certain expensive item on the clearance rack.
I have a problem with customers always being right. I know the importance of good customer service, and I realize that to gain repeat business, we’ve got to keep our customers happy. But what if a customer - or client - takes advantage of this privilege? Should we draw a line. And if so, where do we draw the line?
Do I feel my clients are always right? Absolutely not.
Helping Your Freelance Business Thrive
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