Ani A wrote:
Nichola, what if I propose quite a high rate (considering all the possible expenses), and explain in the cover letter that the rate is negotiable depending the details of the work? And then after the interview, i decrease the rate? I guess it would bear low risk for me.
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Ani,
This is only my perspective on it. But if I send in a proposal on a job that is not absolutely clear but that looks interesting, I write a short and appropriate proposal giving skillsets relevant to that job. I also ask the client for more details. If I get invited, I state my rates and tell the client they are dependent on further clarification. If a client prevaricates in any way on the details, or says that he/she is working to a minimum budget, then I pass.
Only you can decide how flexible you will be with your rates, but in my opinion, you would be making a mistake to meet a very low budget in order to get that first job - particularly in the legal field. Bottom feeders tend to be bottom markers, so I would tread very carefully on this one. Whether you stick to your rate or lower it will have nothing to do with the eventual outcome. It is not a question of risking money; you risk a whole lot more if there is an unsatisfactory outcome to the job.
That said, you have nothing to lose by accepting an interview, just don't agree to a contract if you feel you might be working in the dark, or incurring expenses that you may not get reimbursed for.
ETA: I forgot to add only accept a contract if it is hourly with the Upwork tracker enabled or as a fixed price contract with the entire amount agreed to paid into escrow before you start work.
