While a portfolio may indicate a writer’s or artist’s talent level and style range, some freelance subspecialties are a bit more difficult to assess–in particular, copyediting and proofreading ability. In my own business, for example, I will generally offer a brief editing sample for a book author before we...
Read moreCreative output is not a cure-all for a poor relationship, and a freelancer you get along with personally may not have the raw creative or technical firepower to accomplish your business goals. It’s a matter of balance, but ideally, you need both components. That’s why it’s critical to vet...
Read moreWhen your business needs intersect with the ideal freelancer for the job, there’s nothing better. Without adding overhead or staffing issues, you can dramatically improve your creative and business results, and those synergies will increase over time. Here are six simple ways you can motivate a freelancer to outperform...
Read moreThe urban legends about creating a business plan on a cocktail napkin are all well and good, but a professional freelancer is going to want to know exactly what the parameters are in order to formulate an estimate for you. Obviously, it’s in your best interest to have an...
Read moreHiring a freelancer can be as simple as a handshake or short written agreement. But as a businessperson, you need to be aware that federal and state governments–on the prowl for higher payroll tax hauls–have been cracking down on companies that hire independent contractors but treat them like W-2...
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