The Freelancers' Show

Panel

Charles Max Wood (twitter github Teach Me To Code Rails Summer Camp) Eric Davis (twitter github blog) Evan Light (twitter github blog) Jeff Schoolcraft (twitter github blog)

Discussion

ChiliProject/Redmine Website Contact Form littlestreamsoftware.com business/niche apps libraries getting involved in open source projects Refinery Fat Free CRM Instructure speaking at conferences talk to other developers, have a community presence users groups referrals from other/larger firms subcontracting blogging and podcasting for lead generation be an expert in your field build trust with potential clients the tiers of intimacy do what you enjoy doing job boards

-but-
not job boards
compete not on price, but on qualities
recruiters
government contracts and associated suicide accessories
don't work for equity unless you're fine as an investor
vetting clients
define availability, timetable, deadline and rough spec
research the client
Obie Fernandez' Master Services Agreement
Statement of Work
New Leaders Master Service Agreement (CC)
subcontractor agreements
if the client gives you a contract, it will be slanted toward the client
if you give the client a contract, it will be slanted toward you
considering a client "in the pipeline"
signed contract
deposit in the bank
determining sufficient deposit
deposit in escrow
does the client set off alarm bells?

Picks

TextExpander (Chuck) exercise and make time for yourself (Chuck) sleep (Eric) SaneBox (Eric) OtherInbox (Evan) limit your billable hours per week (Evan) Siri on iPhone 4s (Evan) Preneurcast (Jeff) How to Read a Book (Jeff) Read It For Me (Jeff)