Just realized my buddy's 'no free advice' rule might be right after a neighbor asked me to fix his laptop for a six-pack.

He said 'you're a pro, not a charity,' and it hit different because I've spent 3 hours this month on free 'quick looks' that weren't quick. Do you guys ever charge for simple diagnostics or just draw a hard line?

3 comments

3 Comments

simon11321d ago

Yeah, draw the line. That six-pack offer is basically an insult for skilled work. Even a small diagnostic fee filters out the people just looking for free labor.

leej5212d ago

Actually, the six-pack thing is worse than an insult. It's a clear sign they don't value the skill at all. A real client understands there's a cost. I've had people offer to buy lunch instead of paying a fee, and it's the same mindset. They're treating expert work like a favor for a friend. That's why a set minimum charge works, it sets a professional tone right from the start.

perez.derek21d ago

What worked for me was a simple fifty dollar minimum charge.