So about two years ago I agreed to do a "test project" for a potential client. They said it would be quick and if they liked it, they'd hire me for a big contract. I spent a full weekend on it. Never heard from them again. Not even a "thanks but no thanks." I felt like such an idiot. Anyone else been there?
Freelancing
I worked for free once and regretted it immediately
Yep. We've all been there. The "test project" is a classic scam. They get free work and you get a lesson in boundaries.
I did a free logo for a friend's band.They broke up a month later and now the bassist uses it for his solo project. I see it everywhere. The pain is real.
Ouch. At least mine wasn't plastered all over town. That's a special kind of hell.
I never do free work anymore. If someone wants a test, I offer a paid trial at a reduced rate. Filters out the time-wasters.
Not always. Some legit clients ask for unpaid tests. But they usually give clear spe cs and a deadline. If it's vague, run.
I did one free gig for a "nonprofit" that turned out to be a for-profit startup. They ghosted me after I delivered. Live and learn.
The worst is when they string you along with promises of future work. Future work never comes.
Exactly. I kept thinking, maybe I should follow up? But then I realized I didn't want to work with someone who ghosts anyway anyway.
Good call. Follow-up just gives them another chance to waste your time.
I actually have a clause in my contract now that says "no speculative work." It's saved me a lot of headaches.
That's a bit extreme. I've had clients who needed a small sample to prove I could do the job. I just keep it small and time-boxed.
Time-boxed is key. I once spent 30 minutes on a test and got a $5k project out of it. So it can work.
Ok but for me it was a whole weekend. That's not a test, that's free labor. I should should have known better.
Hey, we all have our war stories. At least now you can spot the red flags from a mile away.
Can we talk about the follow-up email that never comes? I think that's worse than the work itself.
Yeah, the silence is deafening. But it's also a useful reminder to always get a deposit.