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 How to Avoid Being Taken Advantage Of As A Freelancer

When you first start out as a freelancer, it might be difficult to recognise the risks of exploitation. New freelancers frequently undervalue their worth in the name of exposure and progress. It's all too simple to squander your time or erroneously donate your skills only to be left with nothing to show for it.

That's what happened to me when I first started out as a freelance writer. I was transferring from college to the workplace, and I was willing to do favours for friends in exchange for a lower pay rate. I had no concept how damaging exploitation might be to my career.

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Here are four strategies to spot exploitation in freelancing and instead choose honest, satisfying work.

1. Make Inquiries

I had to learn this lesson the hard way. Editors were continually requesting things from me a long back, but their criteria were never specific enough for me to know exactly what they wanted.

I was so pleased to be contacted that I would jump at the chance without hesitation. Then, when I delivered the completed work, they would decline it because they had another plan.

My attempts would be futile until I provided clear details. Even if I could save it, I'd have to put in more effort—I'd have to go out there and try to sell it to another newspaper.

If a freelance request is ambiguous, don't assume the employer will accept anything you provide them. Continue to ask inquiries until you have a clear idea of their expectations. In the long run, you'll spare yourself from giving away your well-crafted work for nothing.

2. Appreciate Your Time

I'm open about how little time I have to write. I didn't always express my availability in such a plain manner. But once upon a time, a freelance designer I met initially demonstrated to me how valuable each minute was, so I shifted my priorities.

I owe her gratitude for teaching me the worth of my time. Now that I'm on vacation, I don't feel obligated to write. Even if I receive a request, I will not squander my free time. My time is more valuable than continuously appeasing editors. I now understand what I can and cannot accomplish in my hectic schedule.

Several variables can cause you to waste valuable time when freelancing. Perhaps a client is paying you next to nothing for long stretches of work, but you don't have a choice because you've run out of work. It is a significant setback when freelancers forfeit their time due to a slowdown in their workflow.

You want to devote your time as a freelancer to a certain specialisation in your field. However, in order to pay the bills, you may be forced to accept job that you would prefer to avoid. Regardless of your preferences, you end up with assignments that don't interest you or help you progress.

Nate, a buddy of mine, is a freelance photographer. He's told me about people attempting to grab "a few quick photos" from him for free or at a quarter of his typical charge. What's the harm in 20 minutes? However, his photography is his job, so the consequences can be severe. You have complete control over your fees and schedule, so don't settle by reducing your work hours or taking time off. Stop accepting underpayment for doing high-quality work on an ongoing basis. Coworking spaces and networking can assist you in sharing job prospects that are appealing to people in your field.