Saying no to exposure or freelance work…
Working for yourself is about freedom. The ability to choose for yourself. Who you want to work with, what projects you take and even when you would like to work. To fully appreciate that freedom, you should learn that saying no can sometimes be the best decision.
Does “Partner with us…” sound familiar?
I was recently approached by a local business to provide a free service at their upcoming event. They only contact me for that one reason. One job, right?! It works out to be annually, over the last 3 years. Yes, really. The third time I got the impression that they were going to pay because they wanted to ‘book’. My bad.
This time ( and the last time ever) I gave a very discounted quote. We’d all had a bad year, I thought Id be nice to a fellow small business. The response to my quote was silence…for days. After browsing their socials on the event, I figured out it was one of those so called opportunities to ‘partner’ and that I should be privileged at the chance to do so. They were inviting other businesses to also partner with them, for the same ‘opportunity’. This business charges decent coin for their goods and services, so why is it so hard to think that other businesses do the exact same thing?
Having dealt with them twice before, each time was similar. They get a free service. I get to attend. They mention me in a post event tag. Perhaps I get a 2 second feature in a video? Instead me giving a strategic response like “Oh, thanks for thinking of me, that sounds amazing! Whats your budget?” I replied with “Sorry, we’re booked on that date” All the while Im thinking “WOW! The nerve”.
The third time? I blocked them. They emailed me. I blocked that too. Not at all professional!
In hindsight, I shouldve nipped it in the bud at the first instance. I learned a valuable lesson and am thankful to have experienced it.
Giving back.
Now I dont always turn down such requests. When I first started out I did a bit of sponsorship for ‘exposure’ and the like. Not so much these days. I dont need it. If I do say yes to such offers, I may have a personal interest in the project and will negotiate an equal exchange for payment in goods and/or services.
I believe in giving back. Its good for the heart and soul. In my personal life I sponsor a child via Plan Australia and have done so for 14 years. I also donate blood through the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, quarterly. Its a gift that saves lives, aannnd you get some yummy snacks afterwards! Business wise, we sponsor our services to some charitable and community events that we feel passionate about.
Its okay to say no. If you’re unsure how to do it, read on for tips.
My snacks after donating blood. I actually had three sausage rolls 😐
A few red flags to indicate you’re expected to work on the cheap or free…
They slide into your DM’s with “Omg, how are you?! I was wondering…” There is usually at least one compliment to soften you up a bit.
“Partner with us” is usually code for “Do it free” in exchange for ‘Exposure Bucks’
If you get a bad vibe through the initial contact, trust your gut. Dont get to the agreement stage with that sinking feeling. Ive been there.
There is a “Can you just….” in the convo, its a sure bet they wont be paying much or at all.
Your quote is ignored. Rude!
“We’re on a super tight budget” means “We cant pay you much”
They dont respond to your queries and when they do, they skip over what you asked.
They want it done super cheap and super fast! Because you dont already have other clients or work?
Some ways to say no. Not all are polite or recommended…
Starting with a “Thank you for thinking of me…” is a great way to set the tone as opposed to “Can you not?!”
“It’s not a priority for me at this time, Im busy with my paid clients” Blunt but to the point.
“I know someone who is a better fit for that. I’ll give you their details”
“You could do it yourself. You’d be more awesome that way”
“Your idea isnt compatible with me”
Dont even answer, block them. Not professional but at least you’ll never deal with them again. Hopefully.
“That sounds like fun, but I am going to be really busy not doing that”
“Does nine plus ten equal twenty one?” Remember that one?
“There’s a person out there who’s a perfect fit for your offer. Im not that person”
Deciding when and how to say no is a big responsibility. It is also a skill that needs to be mastered if you want to grow and succeed not only in your business, but in yourself. It can come in handy for friends and family scenarios. Perhaps more on that in another post!
