I need HELP!!!
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- OSFA
Alright boys and girls, and few gheis...it's that time again.
This is the scenario: I have been working freelance directly with this client for a while now, I am his sole designer and do all his work. I get about 3 to 4 major projects per year just with him.
The thing is, his company liked my work and wants me to become their designer for every publication and be available and deliver work on their time and need. The current jobs I am working on pay great but not enough for me to become full time freelancer.
Now, if they give me the amount of publications and projects I was told per year I would be more than OK to become full time and be their bitch... ;)
My question is: Would it be rude or unprofessional to sit down and ask for a pre-contract or agreement so that I cover my ass and make sure I get all those projects? I work freelance under my company name so it would be an agency-type agreement.
How long should I try to lock them on these projects for? How would I approach them? Are there any contracts or forms that I can use?Please help me out, it is a big decision and I could really use some help and advice from experienced professionals like ya'll!
PS - Sorry for the long as post...
- Yehan0
A factor for me is if you enjoy the work that they offer.. if it's just to pay the bills..I would do it for awhile..but I wouldn't consider long term.
- OSFA0
the work is first class. Great projects, excellent clients and yes, it is fun. I would definitely consider this as a long term business relationship.
- PonyBoy0
First off... there nothing 'unprofessional' about making a contract. ;) Lose the insecurity in your approach too (don't approach it like you're 'all nice and wanna help'...)... approach this as if you know what you're doing and you know what you're worth - you'll be respected regardless if you become 'their guy' or not.
Contracts exist in capitalism... because BOTH SIDES are in it to make money... they're going to protect themselves when they 'work' for someone just as much as you need to when YOU work for someone.
May I advise that you NOT joke around w/the 'bitch' term in front of them either. They'll run w/your 'loose attitude' and could possibly start strong-arming more shit out of you... and YOU WILL resent it.
I speak from my share of experience in this area... I did EXACTLY what you're thinking about doing...
... and I regret my non-challont attitude and lack of a binding contract.
First things first: YOU.
Second things second: them.;)
There are lots of good contracts for sale and for free on the web... just mind the wording - pay close attention to the things you want to protect about yourself etc...
... start over here - there are contract resources here: http://freelanceswitch.com/gener…
- PonyBoy0
*nonchalant
- joyride0
You could discuss some sort of retainer contract... I'll try to dig up the link I had to one. I would suggest keeping the fee low, enough to cover you're bills for the month, if you try to lock them in at a high rate, it makes them uneasy.
Also, might want to talk to them about an exclusive partnership, meaning, all work gets offered to you first, then, if you agree to pass on it, they can seek another designer.
Sounds like a good deal, but if this deal is on a handshake, don't put all your eggs in one basket. Just protect yourself
- OSFA0
That is exactly what I am trying to avoid. Just a handshake agreement or a 'yeah sure' you'll get the work...
Pony, hahaha, the terms and nonchalant attitude is just my PVN personality, believe me, I am very professional and straight to the point when it comes to business, that's one of the reasons why they like me. I am reliable, professional and good looking! haha ;)
Yes, I must admit it is kinda scary but hey, gitts make the jump one day eh? Thank you all for your comments so far and please keep them coming, they are of great help...
- OSFA0
morning bump
- trevedda0
Go for twelve months contract at least. You could even offer a framework agreement with them which basically is a document stating terms and conditions and your rate which, as a selling point, you can state will not change over that 12 months. Make sure you're happy with it, and ask for a retainer of x amount of day rate per month.
My experience has taught me that a job isn't a job worth anything until you finally get paid for it. Although purchase orders from big clients are usually nice to have!
- _foreign0
yes, what joyride side.
retainer...
they pay you a fee regardless of whether you work that month or not, but if they call you in within the retainer period you have to be available.
- paraselene0
i haven't read the whole thread, but...
RETAINER.
- OSFA0
actually they are good about that. I get my retainer fee every month and haven't had any problems with pay or deadlines. They work with different designers now, but I guess the clients and them are not happy anymore, so that is a plus, they have been dealing with freelancers and know the business.
I like the idea trevedda, it would be a compromise of me and my rates and them and the work. I think that is a great approach.
- OSFA0
i haven't read the whole thread, but...
paraselene
(Jul 4 07, 05:20)Then read it!!! ;)
- paraselene0
hehe.
NO!
:P
- OSFA0
ok :(.. I'll go back to my room now...
- OSFA0
Any more ideas guys? p-leeez?
- OSFA0
i KNOW more people will be here today, so here's my bump...
- k0na_an0k0
get it in writing that you will be the one and only guy, a full-time consultant if you will.
also get them to sign a retainer, although i have no idea where you could find one of those. aiga maybe?
good luck brudda!