Comments on: No Spec, No Problem

By: Freelancing “On Spec” | Freelance Parent

Freelancing “On Spec” | Freelance Parent — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 04:25:32 +0000

[...] year, Tamara wrote a post here called “No Spec, No Problem” about clients who ask you to work “on spec.” For those of you new to the game, that [...]

By: Elliott - 21st Century Dad

Elliott - 21st Century Dad — Thu, 29 May 2008 18:43:00 +0000

Thanks for the tip! It’s so hard to say no when you’re chasing potential clients. I’ve agreed to some projects that I wish I hadn’t lately. It wasn’t spec work, but your post was a good lesson on how saying no can serve your interests.

I occasionally do spec work for photography, but I solicit the client. I contribute to iStockPhoto.com, so I can at least get a release and potential revenue from “free” work.

Elliott – 21st Century Dads last blog post..Open Thread Thursday

By: Pamela

Pamela — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:01:23 +0000

When asked for spec work, I direct potential clients to my website or I submit a piece that is totally unrelated to the work they have requested. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I will definitely be using the site that you mentioned the next time someone requests a customized sample. Thanks. Pamelas last blog post..Lessons from a Garage Sale

By: Janis

Janis — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:35:53 +0000

This came at a timely point for me. I had a client just this morning that asked me to write a 500-word article for them as a “trial.” I feel that my portfolio and feedback should be enough for them to make their decision. I went to the website you mentioned and took their letter and modified it. Thank you for this timely post!

By: Dave Howell

Dave Howell — Tue, 20 May 2008 06:50:58 +0000

I totally agree that spec work is something that freelancers should try and avoid. In the early days of Nexus Publishing I often pitched editors who would say can you write a piece on spec to check out your style etc. It simply doesn’t make economic sense.

If you’re finding that a lot of the pitches you make come back asking for spec work, I would politely turn them down. There is plenty of paid work out there if you keep plugging away.