Too many people and companies out there never entertain the idea of hiring a freelancer… For many companies hiring a freelancer to do that next big project seems like a scary thought. Why wouldn’t it be? You have your choice of hiring that big design firm housed within that nice building on 17th street with big name clients under their belts. Seems like taking your chances on a guy who is probably sitting on his couch right now, working from one lone laptop, seems like a foolish decision. What if he bails out on the project when its only half finished? What if he doesn’t answer my emails when i need him to? What if…
What if i told you that freelancers are almost always a better choice then those top design firms? What if i told you that most freelancers offer a better value for their time, much better customer service, and that freelancers can offer a quicker turn around for your project with much more attention to detail… and almost always for a lower price!
Freelancers have something that big design firms don’t… hunger. Freelancers are a different breed then those who work in the corporate arena. We must fight for our work and gain references from our clients to other possible clients. This means the work we do must be of the best quality and that we must satisfy our clients as much as possible.
When was the last time you called a design firm at 2 in the morning trying to get that issue resolved? Well after leaving 10 messages on there voicemail overnight you might be lucky to get a call back in a timely matter by someone who (if your doubly lucky) is familiar with your project and who may actually be a part of it themselves… but don’t expect that to happen.
Many top freelancers will offer you there personal phone number, allowing you to call any time. Have a question? They will answer you right away and guide you through the whole process. A good freelancer will walk you through the entire project and offer advice on issues that you most likely haven’t ever thought of.
Say your website needs some major changes and its Friday afternoon… and your deadline is Monday! Well those employees at the design firm stop the clock the minute they leave and wont think twice about your project until Monday when it is already too late! Only if you had a freelancer, who is available anytime, weekdays, weekends, late hours, willing to please!
Many good freelancers will work with you in ways that design firms just simply cannot! They know your project inside and out, every pixel and every line of code. Need to update or revise your design later down the road? If you hire a design firm you better be prepared to start back from the beginning. Although that freelancer who could have done your project, could easily pop in and update your design and/or website in a fraction of the time!
Freelancers are individuals… much like mom and pop stores on the corner with loyal customers and better quality products. They take care of their customers, they are understanding, and always eager to please.
Next time you have a big project, think twice and hire a freelancer!
