Did we solve the conundrum of charging an hourly versus per-project rate? I don't think it is solvable, which means the following:
1. Some projects will need to be charged out by the job
2. Sometimes, you will lose out a job because of your rates
3. Sometimes, you will take a job knowing you will lose "money" on the job
4. Everything you do will stack your portfolio, and gain you experience and widen your professional network.
With those factors in mind, what becomes the litmus test of how to decide what and how to charge? So, I think that I will take one more opportunity to talk about client relationships before I answer that question. I want to throw a question right back at you: In order to find a client, and get a job, YOU have been interviewed, presented your portfolio and accepted for the job....correct? So... is it crazy to interview your client right back? I would like to suggest a survey, or some other type of measure so you can interview your client right back!!! That's right...you want to make sure the client is someone YOU can work with.....that will help you on so many levels.....it will help gauge your clients preferences, pre-existing knowledge, preferences and peculiarities. So I am attaching a survey that I have found helps focus my client, and gives me some insight into them....(BTW - For me, I need a client who can MAKE decisions, I don't want them to always turn to me to decide) .....What do you think about this survey?