how to fire your oldest client by Alison Green on February 17, 2014 A reader writes: I’m a web copywriter, and my oldest client (I’ve been with her for 6+ years) is like a family member to me. A family member who drives me nuts, is incredibly high maintenance, and likes to take all the credit for my successes, but also one who I admire and appreciate. After […] Read the full article →
I’m worried a client isn’t going to pay me by Alison Green on December 17, 2013 A reader writes: In October, I started a job working as a freelance journalist for a local newspaper. The managing editor would communicate with me via email, sending me leads for stories. I would go to events, interview people, and take pictures. She was very nice and always responded to my emails within minutes. According […] Read the full article →
8 tips for starting your own business and not failing horribly by Alison Green on November 18, 2013 If you’re thinking/fantasizing/wondering about ditching your job and going to work for yourself, here are eight tips to make it go as smoothly as possible. 1. Try it on the side first. Rather than ditching your job and then setting up shop for yourself and just hoping that the clients come, try out your business idea […] Read the full article →
should I do free work for the exposure? by Alison Green on September 13, 2012 A reader writes: In my spare time, I am a youth event planner. Today, I was contacted by a large event company who found me through a mutual business connection and asked me if I would do an unpaid 20- to 30-minute nationwide podcast explaining how to plan a weekend youth event, so that other […] Read the full article →
how to break up with a client by Alison Green on August 9, 2012 A reader writes: I have a question that seems as though it should be a snap, but is throwing me for a loop. Several years ago, I left a full-time job in order to freelance, and my most recent employer has remained one of my clients. I have been handling an ongoing series of projects […] Read the full article →
what to think about before launching your own business by Alison Green on August 8, 2012 I see this advice all the time — “Can’t get a job? Become an entrepreneur.” There’s no question that it works for some people, but it’s far from being universally applicable. Starting your own business is hard, and it’s not for everyone. It’s not as easy as just having a skill and selling it. You […] Read the full article →
approaching my employer about consulting for them on top of my regular job by Alison Green on August 2, 2012 A reader writes: Two months ago, I started a part-time job at a small company. My duties include typical front desk and reception duties and I enjoy working there. When I am not working there, I am spending my time preparing to launch my own marketing and social media business on a part-time basis. I […] Read the full article →