Community Skillshare: Freelancers’ Survival Guide
Join AIR members Andrea and Johnny in conversation about raising and negotiating your rates as a freelance audio professional. Using the "Shit Sandwich" method, they discuss:
Language freelancers can use to announce rate increases professionally, including increases in cost of living, equipment, and subscription fees.
How often freelancers should be updating their rates, and by how much.
Strategies for raising rates without damaging long-term client relationships, and practical ways to handle client pushback or negotiation.
Scheduling client check-ins to identify what's working well, and what needs adjusting (including rates). This also functions as a way to keep up with and respond to a rapidly evolving media landscape.
What a standard contract usually covers, and how it can help freelancers understand the scope of work to better avoid scope creep.
Andrea Klunder is an award-winning producer, content director, and the founder of The Creative Impostor Studios, a production and strategy agency dedicated to crafting powerful podcasting experiences for cultural institutions, creative changemakers, and organizational leaders working toward inspired impact. Schedule a complimentary 30-minute freelance business consultation ("NOT a sales call!") with Andrea.
Johnny Flores, founder of Flores Podcast Productions, helps organizations turn their ideas and expertise into professional podcasts. Based in Sacramento, he works with nonprofits, cultural organizations, and businesses to develop and produce shows that connect with their audiences. As an independent producer and editor, he focuses on practical storytelling, strong client partnerships, and the business side of freelance audio work. Find a time to connect with Johnny.
Whether you’re just getting started as an independent creator or trying to track down a late payment from a long-standing client, AIR’s advocacy resources are built to support you in real situations. Explore our Advocacy Hub for tools you can use right now, including guidance on rates, contracts, fair practice, and how to navigate working as an independent. There, you'll also find resources on how to cope with layoffs and unemployment, should you find yourself in those situations (as many of us have!). This is an evolving resource shaped by the community. If there’s something you want to see included, reach out to AIR’s Advocacy Associate, Giulia Hjort, at [email protected] or schedule time to connect with her.