For freelancers - who may need to hear this. You may feel like you have less of a voice than ever, and that you need to be grateful for any work that comes your way. This will hopefully help and empower you. #thread

If someone has commissioned you for work, and the rate seems lower than usual or low, do not be afraid to say in a neutral way, if the rate can be increased. However, don't say you can't do that rate (unless you mean it) and avoid anything that backs you into a corner.

When you have agreed the rate, confirm when it will be paid. Ask if 50% can be paid now. If you are a writer, confirm whether it is paid within 4 wks or paid on publication. Unless it is news, I almost never work for people who only pay on publication as they can take the mickey.

Whatever your industry, CONFIRM THE TERMS OF PAYMENT AND RATE. You are not being cheeky, bullish etc. You are literally doing the equivalent of what someone who provides goods does. If the person booking/commissioning you doesn't understand this, that is their failure, not yours.

If people are asking you to do anything for free - unless they are a charity or altruistic group - their lack of budget is not your issue. If you are being asked to speak, write, be interviewed on their platforms, which are going to advance their brand, be wary of this.

That doesn't mean you can't do things for exposure or work for people you like and think are fun, for no charge. But don't feel like if you don't do it, you're losing the opportunity. Don't feel guilty.

lastly, most of us freelancers are panicking. It might make us feel like we're being lazy or slacking off if we take a break. Freelancers are some of the HARDEST working ppl I know - otherwise we wouldn't survive in normal times. Be kind to yourself, know that you aren't lazy.

This is a pandemic. Unprecedented times. It may require us to be more agile mentally than we have ever been. But we are nothing if not resourceful, and hard workers. Know your value, know your worth. You'll make mistakes, it will be tough, but you WILL get through this.