A contract is an essential part of being a freelancer. Even if you’re just starting out, it’s valuable to put one in to your process as soon as possible. In this episode we share advice for creating your contract and some hurdles to watch out for, alongside so many useful resources in our show notes.
A contract should cover all possible scenarios ‘just in case’. Things may be going well with your client now, but putting it all in writing will hopefully ensure it keeps going well, and that you have something to fall back on if it doesn’t.
Using a contract shows you’re a professional, and you should use one even if (especially if!) it’s a friend who is hiring you.
Use templates you trust and adapt them to suit your project, and get a lawyer to look it over if you freelance full time or are doing big projects; just to be sure.
Design your contract so it is clear and concise, and make it easy for your client to sign it. The less friction there is, the more likely it is they will read your contract and have a better understanding of the process.
00:35 – Intro & catch up
03:45 – The importance of contracts & what’s in ours
10:50 – How we created our contracts
17:10 – Using a contract with friends
22:40 – Rights & competitors
28:50 – Signing the contract
Seanwes learn lettering course
Malarkey free contract template
Jessica Hische – The Dark Art of Pricing
Moneybird (Dutch & Belgian market)
Skillshare Class – Contract writing for freelancers
The Nu School – Why you need a contract for every project
The Nu School – Three principles your contract must align with