Writers Unbound

I just finished up two pieces of one-time local work. Other than my ongoing magazine editorial client, these were some of my first forays into local work. I had been, up to now, avoiding local work because of some perceptions on my part.

Many freelancers want to delve into the local market, so I’ve decided to list the pros and cons of getting into this particular market for my freelance colleagues out there.

PROS:

• Immediate pay! Yay! Both of my local clients paid me when they picked up their project. They probably felt like they were exchanging a product for pay, instead of a service for pay. Since I was giving them something tangible, they felt that they had to do the same.
• Ability to make connections and to ask for referrals. The face to face interaction give you lots of opportunity to take that next step.
• Getting a little interaction outside the house! I don’t know about you, but I get a little tired of talking to my dog all day.
• The ability to get immediate answers to your questions. Just pick up the phone! 
• The higher likelihood of tax write-offs occurring. For example, if you meet outside of your home or office, you’ll be able to write off mileage and the coffee you purchased at Starbucks. 
• Local recognition. Depending on your clients, you may have the opportunity for some local recognition.

CONS:

• Clients come to your office…which means you have to clean it beforehand…Yeah, dust balls aren’t professional.
• Small talk cuts into your bottom line. There is no option to “just hit send.”
• If you live in a state with a craptastic economy, you may need to adjust your standard rates.
• Phone calls feel more pressing than emails, so I feel the need to respond quickly.

Overall, I would definitely recommend taking on local work. I’m glad I did both of these projects, and am looking forward to some more!