Freelancing in the ministry space is a bit different than freelancing in other market segments; I know, I’ve tried.
Specifically what I mean by “ministry space” is that your primary (or majority) clientele are ministries, churches, and non-profits.
It’s been an interesting experience to say the least, and although I could talk your ear off about a lot of “lessons” learned, here are 5 myths that I was reminded recently that I’d like to share with you.
Myth #1: Money
The first myth is completely bogus and yet I still hear it all the time: Ministries and Non Profits don’t have much money.
Bull.
They do have money and many of them have been “blessed” in extraordinary ways. What they may have is a bit more fiscal responsibility (although that’s not guaranteed either). The worst is when it’s used as an excuse to pay less than an acceptable rate.
Myth #2: Pro Bono Work Does / Doesn’t Pay
This is somewhat of a both/and type scenario, but the fact is that some pro bono jobs are well worth the sweat and blood to manage; the relational capital can be out of this world.
On the flip side, many pro bono jobs completely suck and are not worth the time or investment, at least for you. For others it might just be the right thing.
Myth #3: Your Portfolio
This one’s simple: The myth here is that your portfolio matters a lot. The honest to God truth is that many freelancers don’t even carry one in the ministry space because relational capital and equity completely owns it.
I know so many people who have been hired based on their relationships and the equity that exists relationally over more qualified and competence individuals.
It is what it is.
Myth #4: The Job Doesn’t End
People have complained to me that working for ministries and non profits is a lifesuck because the job never ends. Let me be clear that this is the fault of the freelancer and not the organization.
It’s your responsibility to take care of the timeline and map out deliverables. Don’t be dumb and blame it on the organization.
Myth #5: Paperwork Doesn’t Matter
Some think that they can get away without having robust paperwork and documentation. Don’t be silly.
Successful ministries are lead by some of the best and the brightest and they don’t skimp on paperwork. Be a diligent freelancer and provide some of that documentation.
Chris says
whoa.
peace | dewde
SRivera says
Yikes!
Josh says
Good reminder John. Thanks!
Jen C says
As a new freelancer who started in and still works in the ministry space, now that I’m starting to get some for-profit clients, I need some help setting up contracts and paperwork for all my clients. Suggestions on people or resources that would be helpful with this?
(trying not to be a push-over with people who know I started in ministry space)
dannyjbixby says
Good list, looks useful.
Nick Shoemaker says
Love this post.
One of my most memorable moments has been when I pulled out my freelance contract. The client was like- huh?. I’m glad they signed it. It would have been hard to walk away from the project (and the money- if I’m being honest.) 🙂
Jared says
Myth #2: Pro Bono Work Does / Doesn’t Pay … after doing this for a while I can say, all the “pro bono” work I have ever done has NOT paid off.. all it has done is shown the ministry/client that I am willing to work for cheap.. therefore they don’t take me serious and they take you for granted.. yeah they will pass your name on… ” here use this guy he did all this for free i’m sure he will give you a good deal… ” then you are stuck in a endless cycle…
What I have found works..
Do a awesome job… be detailed, and try to respond to emails and turn around in a timely manner.. build a relationship with the client like john said it is the relationship that can be your “portfolio”
my .02
Stephanie Ciardi says
These are some good points. Thanks for sharing. There are a lot of things people say about working with churches and ministries but I totally agree with you. Sometimes the relationships built or expanded on are totally worth the extra effort.
Joshua Skogerboe says
Thanks Jon. Very helpful. I’ve just started to pick up more freelance design work. This will be helpful. Much grass.
Yohan Perera says
Hi John,
There are some great thoughts here. They are relevant not only to freelancers, but for most tech people doing full time jobs at ministerial organizations or churches.
I have gone through the first situation a lot. I am not trying to be rude here or criticize others. But Certain ministries claim they don’t have money to pay at a reasonable rate. However the secret is they are poor in strategic financial management, Ignorant or not willing to make an effort at all. But they want the work done in tip top condition.
One question though. What is “Pro Bono Work”?
Scott Magdalein says
Relational capital beats a portfolio every time. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve received a referral and the new client never asked for a portfolio or visual reference.