Although podcasts are nothing new, the scope of design podcasts available now on iTunes is astounding – and most are free. They range from straight lectures to software tutorials to motion graphic reels. Some are video podcasts, some are not. But never fear if you don’t have a video iPod, you can watch the tiny video in iTunes on your computer. Better yet, go to the presenters website (you can link to it right from iTunes) and watch the podcast in Quicktime - much larger!

The content and quality varies with each podcast—some presenters sound as though they’ve just been dragged out of bed—so “shop” around. However, many are polished, professional and well worth a listen. Whether you have 6 minutes or an hour and six minutes, try downloading some inspiration!

There is no question that clients need to meet their bottom line. And as a
resourceful designer you can help them do this by providing solutions that
bring results and fit within their budget. However, don’t bend to the pressure if you
hear…

Little White Lie #3: I need a price asap!

Don’t panic! Don’t blurt something out you may regret. After getting as much information from them about the job,
tell them you will work up some pricing and get back to them. It’s very hard to “ballpark” a price while on the phone or at a meeting with someone. And usually the client truly doesn’t need the pricing that instant. Take some time to consider the parameters of the project, then call them later and say ” What we discussed will cost X-will that fit within your budget?” If it fits, great. If it doesn’t, negotiate with them-maybe fewer revisions can allow you to charge less. Take the time to estimate accurately. Your clients will appreciate it in the long run.

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You’ve just been asked to do a job “Pro Bono,” meaning you will be providing your expertise for free or at a greatly reduced rate for a non-profit or charity, for the “public good.” With proper preparation, this can be a fantastic experience for all involved. Without, it can quickly derail and leave bad feelings (and bad design!) all around.

Before taking on a pro bono job, consider if you feel strongly about this organization. If you have no appreciation for classical music, designing a website for a chamber music ensemble isn’t a great fit. Do you have an affinity with the stakeholders in the group? Do you all have a similar vision for the project? Convincing them not to put 7 “On Sale Now!” bursts on the piece is drains time and enthusiasm. Ultimately, you’d like this in your portfolio, right?

If all of the above checks out and you agree to take on the project, it’s time to get a signed contract. Why a contract if no money is changing hands? It spells out exactly what the deliverable will be, how many revisions you’ll provide and any rights that are being transferred. No misunderstandings, no unspoken expectations. For the client, designer, and the public, that’s all good.

Actually, I’m lying myself a bit in this post. The folks who have slipped this beauty by me never really became clients. Read on and you’ll see why.

Little White Lie #2: Just fool around with it a little. If you come up with something I like, I’ll pay you.

Wow, total creative freedom! I’ll just work up some designs and they are sure to like one of them, right? Well, there is a chance they could like one of your designs, but most times these people are window-shopping. They have likely done this before with a different designer and will do it again in the future. And you probably won’t get paid for your time and efforts.

Called working on speculation or spec, this “hit or miss” approach doesn’t allow for project analysis, constructive client feedback (“it’s good or it’s bad” isn’t constructive), and doesn’t build trust, or a working relationship.

The No!Spec website is a treasure trove of information on the pitfalls of spec. It may be tempting to submit to this type of agreement especially when starting out and trying to build your portfolio, but get the respect (and the money) you deserve. A simple contract requiring a deposit before work commences will position you as the professional you are.

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I know this title may sound quite cynical-especially as my first post as a guest blogger, but I heard many little white lies as a fresh-faced freelancer that most designers seem to encounter during their careers. I fell for many of them too. Maybe you won’t have to.

Little White Lie #1: Give me a cheap price on this project and I’ll have lots more work for you in the future.

Hmm, lots more work. That sounds great. However, ask yourself, lots more work at what price — at this cut-rate? Can I sustain that pricing past the initial project? Do I want to? And will those future projects ever come to fruition? Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Price your work so that it is fair for you. If you offer a lower rate than your usual fee, negotiate for something in return. If you design a poster for an event, get extra tickets to it. Designed a brochure for a hot new product? Get a box of that hot product. Giving away something for nothing is usually what it’s valued at…nothing.

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