Hourly Jobs.

[kathy1010]

Hi. I'm hoping for a bit of guidance. I'm dying for more hourly work. However, invariably, I'm asked (logically) "How long will it take?" The question is certainly reasonable. Here's my problem. I'm used to researching my writing carefully on a multitude of websites. That's easy on a flat rate job. My clients really appreciate the "depth" of information I provide. 

But this takes time. Do I do the research on my own time for hourly jobs? I have a potential right now wanting to know how long a few meditation scripts will take. I guessed an hour, but it could go either way.

There has to be a more sensible way to gauge hourly work. Thanks.

[gilbert-phyllis]

No, don't do the research for free. Clients can't have it both ways, although an appalling number of them need a spoon-fed explanation of why not.

Thorough, smart research is a critical differentiator. If that's what you offer, don't sell yourself short. The clients you want are the ones who recognize the value and are prepared to pay for it. 

Out fo curiosity: why are you eager for more hourly work, since indeed, it often entails this tedious conversation about scoping and price?

[kathy1010]

It seems it's more profitable. Maybe I'm wrong. I'm so used to doing long ebooks for $50-$100 that take me a week. 

I do like your suggestion to keep looking for clients that don't expert a quality researched article in an hour. Your absolutely correct there.

[kat303]

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@Virginia F wrote:

It seems it's more profitable. Maybe I'm wrong. I'm so used to doing long ebooks for $50-$100 that take me a week. 

I do like your suggestion to keep looking for clients that don't expert a quality researched article in an hour. Your absolutely correct there.

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Curious - how many hours do you put in, total (researching and actual writting, editing and proofing) for that week?  

[kathy1010]

I work 10 hours each day. Sometimes I do think I could be faster. Even with a simle recipe book, I check each recipe to at least 2 similar ones to make it totally unique. 

[kathy1010]

Phyllis, thinking about your comment about good research being valuable. Strange, but when I read clients requesing 6000 per day, I feel lacking - like that's normal and I can't deliver. You're right. Good research is a **bleep** talent. Thanks for that boost.

[tlsanders]

Virginia, it doesn't sound like this is about hourly v fixed price. It sounds like you just need to upgrade your client base. Cranking out 5,000 words and writing a well-researched 500-word piece are two very different jobs, which may pay about the same. It sounds like you're providing the second variety for clients who are only paying for the first. You have to go one way or the other--drop the time and attention you give a job to match the pay rate or hold out for jobs that pay what your investment is worth.

[kathy1010]

Hmmm You mean, you get what you pay for. Now there's an idea. Thanks. Yes. I'm so scared of getting bad reviews I honestly think I put too much into a simple job. Sounds weird, but true. 

[tlsanders · Accepted solution]

It's not weird--it's a common phenomenon that clients who want high quality for low rates capitalize on. But, there are plenty of respectable clients out there, so you don't have to play along. Or, if you want to write an e-book for $100, just make the effort proportionate and don't spend more than 3-4 hours on it.

[kathy1010]

Right as usual, Tiffany. I'm about to grow a backbone - so watch out!