My little business has been busy. Yay for me, but Wow. I had an idea to send a post about whether you would like to hire someone who is an expert or learner. Sorry, You are not getting it today. Due to a little interaction this afternoon, my feathers got ruffled.
In most situations, I have a very looonngg fuse. I was provoked by a potential client who not only questioned my integrity but belittled my services. Yikes, this was not good for her. I will often respond to bids on freelance sites. I placed a bid for a particular job about two weeks ago that had a very vague description. (Mistake #1)
Without giving all the dirty details, this client wanted 2 weeks of work for 2 days pay with daily updates to prove progress. (Mistake #2- queue the gut ache. Always listen to your gut!) This was hard for me because I have a new business that I am trying to build a client base and portfolio. In full disclosure, my pricing options are below the going rate because I am gaining further experience via these projects that I did not get from my degree. Fair enough, right??
I was told this job was “just designing”. Well “just designing”, requires hours of coding and design creation. If you don’t know anything about coding, right click on any web page and choose “view page source”. Welcome to the world of a programmer and web design/developer. It is the perfect storm for a scientist who likes to craft. No kidding! I do not have a drag and drop business. I graciously said, “Thanks, but no thanks”. This was hard because I am a people pleaser with severe enabling tendencies.
So now that I have stepped down from my soapbox, I have a little advice for anyone hiring for a job you are unfamiliar with.
1. Research a little– if you don’t have time- make time! Knowledge is king! You need to have some idea of what you are asking for.
2. Get an idea for the cost base. Know the general price point for what you are seeking. This not only protects you but saves time when negotiating the job cost.
3. Get more than 1 quote, even if the first quote is a great deal. Please know what other people are offering before signing on the dotted line.
4. Cheap is usually shady! If it is a steal of a deal, you will probably be on the bad end of the deal.
Lastly to the person who ruffled my feathers, good luck in your future endeavors.
I bid you, adieu!