Let’s get one thing straight. Asking for freebies in the business world is lame.

Would I ask an accountant to do four hours of my taxes to see if it’s is a good fit? No. 

Would I ask a contractor to build part of my house to see if I like it? Nope. 

How about asking a doctor to perform part of a surgery to see if her approach is suitable? Yikes.

Freelancers and freelance writers hopefuls, this is what I’ve learned in my 9+ years of writing: My time is worth just as much as any other professional, and I don't have to do anything for free. That’s right. I don’t write anything for free. Ever.

Here’s what you do if someone asks you to write a sample piece for free.

Ignore people that ask you to write for free

I usually don’t engage with these types of potential clients because they are acting entitled and aren’t showing respect for the excellent work I do. They will most likely end up being a PITA client. A good client is a client that values the work you do.

Refer the potential client to your portfolio

Chances are, you already have loads of relevant work they can check out to see if you would be a good fit. 

Offer to send them a few samples of your previous work. If you have results of how those pieces preformed, that is a huge bonus.

Give them the skinny on how you work

Tell them how you would approach the project, what your turn around date is, and what they can expect from a working relationship with you. Then, ask when you can start and describe your invoicing process.

Offer to do a paid trial piece

Sometimes it’s nice to work on one project and see if it’s a fit. The only rule? You have to get paid. And, charge them your regular rates for the sample piece. None of this half-off or discounted rates business.

When they agree to hire you, send them a contract

Reinforce your business processes by sending a contract. You agree to send them high-quality work, and they agree to pay you.

Remember, you are fantastic at what you do, and you deserve to get paid. For everything you do.

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