Let’s be honest, we’ve all been there. That hopeful glint in our eye, the surge of altruism, the “Ah, what’s a few hours, really?” mentality. It usually starts with a well-meaning friend, a promising “exposure” opportunity, or that little voice inside that whispers, “You’re a good person, aren’t you?” And that’s how you end up knee-deep in a “quick favor” that’s morphed into a full-blown project, fueled by endless revisions and the kind of micromanagement that would make a drill sergeant blush. I’m here to tell you, my friends, that while generosity is a lovely character trait, in the world of web design, SEO, and reputation management, free work is less “giving back” and more “inviting chaos.” The Siren Song of “Exposure” Ah, “exposure.” That magical currency that supposedly pays the bills, puts food on the table, and funds your retirement. It’s the go-to line of the client who wants the Ferrari of websites on a tricycle budget (or, let’s be real, a unicycle budget). “Think of all the people who will see it!” they exclaim, eyes wide with the fervor of a televangelist. “It’ll be great for your portfolio!” Here’s the truth: exposure rarely translates into actual, tangible benefits. … Continue reading "Why I Rarely (Okay, Almost Never) Do Free Work: A Cautionary Tale for the Generous Entrepreneur"
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