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Should I write for free?

Nicole Laidler • September 8, 2020

Should I write for free?

At some point over the past six months, you’ve probably watched one of your favourite musicians play a free concert on Facebook Live. When COVID-19 put us all under house arrest in mid-March, these events seemed like a great way for working musicians to spread some joy and stay connected with their audience. Many accepted e-transfer ‘tips’ in the hopes of earning some much-needed income as they watched an entire season of gigs dry up overnight.

Lately, I’ve been seeing social media posts asking whether playing for free diminishes the value of music and undermines the ability for anyone to actually make a living as a culture worker in the post-COVID world.

Some musicians I know are calling for the practice to stop. Many are experimenting with streaming live shows that audiences pay to watch from the comfort of home.

Others see music as an essential service-for-the-soul and say playing for free allows them to build their brand so they’re ready to go when clubs and concert halls finally reopen.

What does this all have to do with writing? Well, at some point someone is going to ask you to write something - for free. The question is: Should you do it?

My answer is, no.

But sometimes, yes.

Let me explain.

In my opinion, if you are serious about making a living you should never work for free. If you have a passion that you don’t get paid for, that’s called a hobby. Having a hobby is great. The French word amateur translates as 'one who loves.' I love to cook, but I don't charge anyone to eat my meals. If your goal is to turn your passion into your profession, it starts with demanding a pay check.

One of the nice things about freelancing is having the ability to set your own rates. That gives you flexibility to work with clients who warm your heart, but who may not have the biggest budget. It also gives you the ability to raise your rates as you gain more experience, or acquire specialized skills. But even the smallest pay check is a sign of respect. It shows people that your service and your time is valuable.

So, what about the sometimes yes?

If you are just starting out and need to build a portfolio, then go ahead and write for free - or for a token amount. But do it purposefully, and for the shortest time possible.

Just to confuse the issue even more, here's a confession:

After more than 16 years in the field, I still occasionally work for free. If I’m asked to help raise funds for a cause I believe in, I’ll offer to write and send a media release, or to help with social media and other communications. Since I hate asking people for donations and have limited time to organize an actual event, I feel this is the biggest value I can bring to the table.

But if my calendar is booked solid with paid work, I’ve learned how to say: Thanks for asking, but I’m just too busy to take this on right now.

If you’re a freelancer with a big heart and bills to pay, it’s a phrase you may want to practice.

Happy writing!

Nicole Laidler is a content creator, copywriter, and freelance reporter serving clients in London, Toronto and throughout Southwestern Ontario. She helps people grow their success, one word at a time.

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