Should I say yes to this opportunity?

It seems crazy in this COVID environment to say “no” to any paid work. I totally get that. But it’s worth running a mental eye over a few factors before committing yourself to a project.

Not every job or project that comes along is a golden opportunity. Hopefully, most of them are. But chances are, you’re going to encounter a few duds along the way.

Here’s how to tell if you should say yes or “no way” to your next one.

Does this opportunity fit my business goals?

Chance are, you may have rejigged your business goals of late. Maybe, right now, in COVID times, you just want to pay the bills and get food on the table. So, stuff the goals, let’s just make money.

In that case, you’re a whole lot likelier to say “yes” to this question.

But if you’re still thinking “I’m not sure”, consider what’s holding you back.

2) Do you have the time and energy for this project?

This is a big one. We’re all time poor and if you’re also trying to juggle homeschooling, caring duties, housework AND worrying about a global pandemic, time and energy are very precious commodities.

I’ve seen many jobs pass my way of late and I wish I could do them but I’m just exhausted. By 5pm, I’m cradling a glass of red, by 7.30pm, the kids are tucking me into bed. You know how it is.

But in this case, there’s still an option to say “yes” to this opportunity.

Can you outsource this job completely and charge a finder’s fee?

3) Do you have subcontractors on the books?

Can you subcontract to another freelancer and retain management and ownership of the project?

All freelancers know other freelancers and these connections really pay off. They throw work to you and you to them.

And if you’re subcontracting, then you both get paid because you’re both doing the work, just splitting it. I love being able to share the moolah especially in times like these.

Plus, you retain project ownership and the client. Which can often lead to more work or referrals.

But project management still requires time, energy and input.

4) What are your spider senses telling you?

Often it comes down to your gut – do you get a good feeling about this project or the heebie jeebies?

If you have any doubts now, chances are they’re going to get worse as you move through the job. As everyone knows who’s ever had a hellish client, the money is rarely worth your mental sanity.

So, if you’re still in doubt, it’s always worth listening to your inner sage and following their wise words.

About the author: Lilani Goonesena is a digital communications specialist and the director of LIGO Creative. Based in Canberra, LIGO delivers content, editing, SEO copywriting, web design, strategy, social media and branding for government, the development sector and businesses. Contact LIGO today.