Re: FN-FORUM: Freelancing - Advice

date posted 9th May 2008 12:46

Hi Leigh,

I think it's helpful to look at the bigger picture:

a) generally speaking business is based on relationships.
b) In the UK we also have the benefit of business law, (upon which
international business law is based).

So is this someone you want to work for, when they treat you like
this? If the answer is yes because the potential reward is worth the
hassle then follow the path, accept the link.

Business decisions are made all the time, plans do change, for many
reasons good and bad. Your potential customer may not have done this
for bad reasons.

Consulting fees are billable if agreed upfront. Promises or contracts
can always change unless specified otherwise, in fact that's their
primary purpose.

Now about the law, I can only give an opinion not advice, so take it
as such ;)

On the basis of you attending an initial discussion for which no fee
was agreed or discussed to retrospectively charge for it would be
difficult if not impossible to enforce. Most business starts with such
things, even with lawyers and are non chargeable unless agreed
beforehand, normally you recoup it later on once you get the contract.

Do you interpret a promise of freelance work as a contract? Normally
if you start the work and the client accepts it, then this is evidence
of a verbal contract, but this hasn't happened, the client has decided
not to proceed along that path.

So no written contract or evidence of a verbal one equals no money
payable.

Now you could get the link, apply for the work and get it and so make
the initial hassle worthwhile or walk away. Your choice.

4pw Nigel

> Hi there
> I went for an informal interview regarding a web development job, I
> was then
> told that they were not taking anyone on but would be looking for
> freelance
> services. I went back to the company a couple of weeks later for a
> meeting
> about the implementation of a website. After the meeting we talked
> about
> money etc.. I was then told that they would be sending me their
> requirements
> and that I would then get on with the job. Today (a month later)
> they have
> told me that they will not be requiring freelance services and asked
> me if I
> would like a link to the job advert once it is online.
>
> So, should I send them a bill for consulting at the meeting?
>
> Secondly, doesn't the company have an obligation regarding the
> freelance
> work I was promised?
>
> Best Regards
>
> Leigh