Paula, I think that's the misconception many get about freelancers. One of my longest-running clients still says "Are you still freelancing?" when he writes. And another always reminds me of their toll-free number so I'm not paying for long distance…?? Doesn't everyone have nationwide rates these days?

Anne, good way to handle it. I never like answering back with contention, so I try to find a cordial, friendly way of expressing disappointment or conveying that we're far apart on price.

Eileen, excellent way to get some kind of project commitment! People don't always have the budgets for us, but their circumstances going forward could change for the better. They're more likely to remember writers who were flexible with them.

I'm sure you were perfectly polite, Anne, but I'd have a hard time keeping the snark out of my voice.

As for working smarter, another client has just learned this. They expected to need me on retainer for 28 hours a month. But because I'm actually working all 28 hours and not in meetings, standing around the water cooler, etc., they actually can't keep me busy enough. They'll be cutting back their hours (but the big discount I gave them will shrink along with the hours).

If we're close I may do a bit of negotiating… I find often on large projects spreading out the payments can help.

I never argue with them – I might remind them they aren't paying my benefits, but rarely… I know all four of your list are true… if they don't get it, they don't get me.

Any idea where that originates? Someone saving up to buy pins? Money to pay for a bowling game? (Not sure why, but I visualize a little old lady, circa 1930, pinning a dollar bill to the lining of her skirt.)

Needles to say, neither of us write for that joker anymore.

I like #4 – must remember to use that if it comes up.