Does freelance mean working for free?

Glenford Smith, Career Writer

Does freelance mean working for free?

How to get work, get it done, and get paid

How to get work, get it done, and get paid

Recently, an avid reader of the Gleaner Careers column spoke to me about a frustrating problem she has been experiencing.

Here, in essence, was what she said:

"I'm a freelance writer. I do work for various individuals, publications and organisations. The really frustrating thing for me is that people will hire me to do a project, but once they get their job, it is the hardest thing for them to pay me. Suddenly, they have no end of excuses and promises - everything, except a cheque for the full amount due."

If you've embarked on a career as a freelance writer, graphic artist, photographer, journalist or consultant of some sort, I'm almost certain you've had a similar experience.

After reflecting on my freelancing adventures in speechwriting, speaking, editing, and article-writing for various publications, it brought a question to mind. Here it is: I wonder if these hard-to-pay individuals believe that working as a freelancer means you're working for free? It sure seems that way, sometimes.

It doesn't mean that, in fact, though. A freelancer is not someone who works for free. He or she is a self-employed individual who doesn't have a long-term contractual commitment to any particular company. In that sense, he or she is free to work for whomever he or she chooses.

Over the years, I've worked out an effective system for avoiding the frustration of working and having to fight to get paid.

Follow these guidelines, and you'll get better jobs, enjoy them more and get paid without the hassle.

1. Define your niche and customers carefully. In other words, decide what your service will be and who you'll work for. Be selective in who you work for - not all clients are created equal. This might be harder when you're just starting out and gaining experience, but always bear it in mind.

2. Get the requirements of the job in writing. Some clients may refuse to pay on the basis that you didn't do as they requested. Get the terms of reference in writing.

3. Submit your written contract, including invoice amount, to clients before starting the job. You may email me for a template of what to include.

4. Always demand a deposit before starting the job. If this isn't possible, only submit the finished job when you're getting paid.

5. Do an excellent job within the agreed deadline.

6. Communicate with the client throughout the work process.

7. Liaise with a particular person with authority. Deal with one main person who has the authority to make decisions about the job and about your pay, who you can hold accountable.

8. Submit your invoice on time.

9. Accept that you may have to call, remind and cajole to get paid sometimes. It's an inevitable aspect of the freelancer lifestyle.

10. Accept that you'll get fleeced. It happens. I still have clients who owe me tens of thousands of dollars for work done. I simply learned my lesson, chalked it up to experience and don't stress over it.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and success strategist. He is the author of a new book, 'From Problems to Power: How to Win Over Worry and Turn Your Obstacles into Opportunities'. glenfordsmith@yahoo.com.