Here’s how to know when to say ‘yes’ to a project

When I first ventured into self-employment a few years ago, I received a lot of advice from fellow freelance writers: Know your worth. Don’t take low-paying work.

The advice was valid, as too much low-paying work is a recipe for burnout. But to the newly self-employed, I would say: Know your worth. And also, there are very valid reasons to take low-paying work, if it can help launch your business. 

You can open the right doors without selling yourself short.

The project is good for your portfolio

Potential clients will expect “proof” that your work is good—especially if it’s the type of work that can be displayed in a portfolio (design, video, writing, or other creative work). Portfolios don’t grow overnight. One good client at a lower rate will lead to a better client who pays more.

Even now, several years into freelance writing, I’ll still take projects below my normal rate if I think the work will be a standout in my portfolio. The payoff comes when clients approach me and say, “I saw your work for XYZ company—I love that publication!”

Sometimes projects can earn you far more in the long run than your short-term payout. 

The project will connect you with important people

Some of my best clients are referrals, even when the original project was low-paying, boring, or short-term. I’ve even had clients rehire me when they move on to their next gig.

You’ll quickly learn which people in your industry are “movers and shakers.” By working with them, you could get a glowing recommendation or countless referrals. 

You can also say yes to speaking on panels, podcast appearances, and writing guest posts for publications if you feel like the work will get you in front of the right audience or make good industry connections. These are often a much lower lift than a full-blown paid project and can have a similar impact. 

You can learn new skills

If you need it, here’s your permission to say “yes” to a project that’s slightly outside of your skill set. Slightly being the operative word. You need to be confident that you can meet the client’s expectations. But it’s also an opportunity to try something new and get paid for the work. 

Don’t ever, ever overpromise and under-deliver. However, sometimes the only way to gain new skills as a solo business owner is to take on the work, wow the client, and get the project into your portfolio so you can take on future projects that require the same skill set. 

It’s OK to say “no”

For many self-employed people, money is a primary factor in accepting projects. But just like there are valid reasons beyond money to take on new work, there are also valid reasons for declining work—even if the money is good.

Bad clients can cost you. They can absorb too much of your time and mental energy. You may also reach a point in your business where you don’t need the money, even if you have the bandwidth. 

One of the best things about running your own business is that you get to make those decisions. When you work for an employer, you’re forced onto projects or stuck with colleagues you’d rather avoid. Self-employment is different. Taking on clients is a business decision—and you should get comfortable basing your decisions on factors other than money.

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