How to Save Money When Hiring a Freelancer

In today’s economy, many businesses are turning to freelancers to complete the projects that got neglected when employees were laid off. But some contractors charge high fees to cover their freelance lifestyle. How can you cash in on what freelancers have to offer without going over budget? Here are some tips to help your business save money when hiring freelancers.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 
    

   Offer projects in bulk. Some freelancers are more likely to give you a better deal if they know they are securing a large amount of work. So if you’ve got a few projects you need done, offer the freelancer dibs on all of them. They may give you a bulk discount for giving them a steady flow of work, which is the holy grail for contractors. Just try not to entice freelancers by telling them that there is more work if they do good on a first project. Many freelancers hear this all the time from business owners who want a bulk discount without offering up bulk projects.

2. 
    

   It’s OK to negotiate. While some contractors may get insulted when asked to negotiate their rate, it is perfectly fine to ask a freelancer if they can do better on a quote. They always have the option of saying "no." Some businesses offer their services or products free as a semi-barter, and it’s completely fine to offer that to see if you can get a contractor’s price down—but don’t expect it off the bat.
   
   Make sure you do your homework on the going rates for freelancers, which depends on their role. At least if you know their price is within an acceptable industry-recognized range, you know you’re getting a fair shake. There’s always room to negotiate. If the freelancer refuses, you can either stick with him or her, or look elsewhere. Many contractors will try to work with you because they know that if you don’t use their services, you can easily get your project done by going elsewhere.

3. 
    

   Ask for some revisions included in the price. Many contractors charge an hourly fee for extra touch-ups—and you never know how long that will take, or cost. Instead, try to negotiate revisions into the deal, which can save you some money. Chances are you will want to make some changes to the material, so why pay extra? If the contractor is open to doing this (many recognize that revisions are normal and expect it)—you can save a few bucks.

4. 
    

   Don’t rush the project. Many freelancers will charge a rush fee. So to avoid the extra cost, don’t wait till the last minute to hire a contractor. Assign the project well in advance and offer a practical deadline so the contractor won’t have to work all-nighters loaded up on coffee.