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Serious question, did anyone else get tricked by 'exposure' for their first freelance job?
I did a full website build for a local band in 2022, and they offered me free tickets and a 'shoutout' instead of cash. I figured it was good for my portfolio. After three months, I realized I'd spent 40 hours on it and had zero paying leads from it. Now, I have a firm rule: my first meeting always includes a clear rate sheet, and I don't start work without a 50% deposit. Has anyone else had to learn this the hard way?
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angelamurphy5mo ago
Firm rule" is right, I learned that the hard way too.
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the_jessica5mo ago
Firm rule about the deposit" is the only way to go. Learned that exact same lesson.
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blake_owens5mo ago
Had a client last year try to pay half up front and the rest after. I told them 50% deposit before any materials even hit my truck, non-negotiable. Saved me from a massive headache when they got flaky later. That money in the bank is the only thing that proves they're serious. Without it, you're just working for free on a promise.
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