Comments on: Random Smells

By: Lori

Lori — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:06:40 +0000

Kim, that one became an issue for me on my first big project and a few other smaller ones. It's when I decided a clause was needed.

I suspect you're right, WordVixen. There was that vibe to it.

Damaria, that's so frustrating. It's also tempting to warn off those other writers on the "short" list, but my guess is not all would listen.

Devon, I hate the free sample request. I usually send my article clips. That's my sample. If you want something more, you'll pay me for it.

By: Devon Ellington

Devon Ellington — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 11:36:03 +0000

For me, it's the "free sample" thing. If you can't tell by reading my portfolio whether or not my writing works for you, you either don't know what you want, or you're scamming.

Um, no.

By: Damaria Senne

Damaria Senne — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:33:59 +0000

Ijust dealt with a potential client who made my BS meter start flashing. It started out well enough: she needed someone to edit a book for her, and the project sounded like something I would enjoy. The pay was reasonable too. Then I received an email saying that i'm in her short-list and a couple of days later, another email stating that she decided to go with someone else. However, in the same email, she said that she was sending portions of the book to various people who were shortlisted, as a test. if she'd already decided to go with someone else, why would I want to be "tested" by her? Later, I received a group email with some additional instructions. By then, I knew that this gig was not so kosher.

By: WordVixen

WordVixen — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 01:28:27 +0000

I'm wondering if this ebook is just a way to get people to sign up for all of those sites using his affiliate link. And if he can convince a few freelancers to "contribute", it's free and easy to produce.

By: Kimberly Ben

Kimberly Ben — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:41:19 +0000

Okay, I need to add getting written confirmation of "the people involved" in the projects I take on. It's become an issue recently and I need to just nip it in the bud.

By: Paula

Paula — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:38:00 +0000

Some tire-kickers don't even need the litmus test when it's clear they think the fee for writing a press release includes compiling the mailing list and distributing the release to everyone on it.

Of course, the first mention of "exposure" should result in the immediate termination of the conversation.

By: Lori

Lori — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:25:17 +0000

Aw Cathy, I thought I was special.... LOL

Good one, Ashley! Your instincts never fail you.

By: Ashley

Ashley — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:32:09 +0000

Like you said, at least this guy made it easy for you to ignore his request. Those that seem normal at first and later turn into difficult clients are so much worse. But your litmus test is excellent, and a good way to weed out the sneaky ones that might get through otherwise. I'd add: Go with your gut. If you get a bad feeling at any point before the contract is signed, trust your instinct and politely decline.

By: Cathy Miller

Cathy Miller — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:17:05 +0000

Lori-I got the same email. I am sure that's a real downer for you to know that his email was not exclusively yours. Ha! 🙂