When a pal asked for a 'favor' that was really a full project

Honestly, a close friend hit me up to 'pick my brain' about their new business. Tbh, I was happy to help at first, thinking it was just advice. Ngl, things shifted when they sent me a list of tasks like designing a logo and writing copy. I spent three days working on ideas before realizing they expected it for free. When I mentioned my usual fee, they acted surprised and said friends help each other out. Now I'm out of time and energy, and our friendship is strained. This is why setting boundaries early is key in freelancing.

3 comments

3 Comments

xena_brown5026d ago

Totally agree with @clairem47 about the discount rate. Learned that the hard way after a cousin asked for a whole website.

clairem471mo ago

Ugh, been there. I mean, I finally made a simple rule for myself. If it takes more than a quick phone call, I have a "friends and family rate" that's a big discount, but it's not free. I'll say something like, "I'd love to help, my normal fee for this is X, but for you I can do Y." That way it sets a value on the work. I also have a basic email template ready to go that lists what that rate includes, so it's all clear from the start. It feels awkward the first time, but it saves the friendship way more than free work does.

mia_sullivan1mo ago

Yeah, that email template is a lifesaver (seriously, it takes the emotion out of it). I even include a timeline in mine, like 'this rate covers up to two revisions and a week turnaround,' so there's no confusion later. And for the discount, I base it on how close we are, so best friends get a deeper cut than casual acquaintances. It sounds cold, but it actually makes things more fair for everyone involved.