24
Red flag: when a client says 'we'll give you exposure' instead of money
Had a guy reach out from a startup in Denver wanting a full brand package. Logo, website copy, social templates. When I asked about budget he said 'we can offer you great exposure and a testimonial.' I told him my rent doesn't accept exposure as payment. He got defensive and said I was 'not a team player.' Blocked him and moved on. Lesson learned: if they lead with exposure, they probably have zero budget. Anybody else get this line from clients who act like you're the unreasonable one?
2 comments
Log in to join the discussion
Log In2 Comments
finley_smith14d ago
...and then he called YOU not a team player? That is wild. The audacity of some people is actually breathtaking. Like buddy, your 'exposure' doesn't pay my electric bill or put groceries on my table. I had a guy once offer me a 'future equity stake' in his app idea. I asked if I could use that equity at the gas station and he didn't think it was funny.
0
kelly_rivera14d ago
Right there with you. That "exposure" nonsense always comes from people who have the money but don't want to spend it. Sounds like you handled it way better than I would've.
6