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Dear Haikusue:
For the past three years I have worked as a freelance journalist for a local SF publication (not going to name names, but it's one of the bigger ones.) Throughout our working relationship there has been a series of problems, from being told checks were 'in the mail' to last minute changes to work already submitted, it hasn't been a great relationship. Now, things have gone from bad to worse. Earlier this month I was called in and told "because of the recession, and staff layoffs" they would need me to provide twice the amount of work for 1/2 the money they are currently paying me. Additionally they want me to 'cover stories' that are way out of my area of expertise! This is so outrageous I am ready to tell them to go to hell, but they are one of my biggest clients and I am not sure I will be able to make-up the lack of money if I sever our agreement. Should I agree to this ridiculous demand, or should I tell them to stuff it?
Signed,
Freelancing in the FIDI
Dear Freelancing:
Going nowhere good
Devaluation of self
I'd let this gig go