I got a lot of feedback from
last week's Good Friday. One in particular is an issue that is somewhat related to business with family and friends. My friend Dave writes:
"Interesting Good Friday post about family and friends in business. I'm in IT, and my friends and some family always ask me to look at their computers. Should I be charging them? I feel like a bad friend asking for money but it takes up a lot of my time. What is a good way to bring up payment between friends."
This can be a sticky issue. The key is to not take advantage of your friends' goodwill by constantly asking for their help with the expectation that it will be free. Paying a friend for their help can also let them know that you respect their talent and time. Here are some tips to consider to keep things fair and balanced:
- Generally speaking, if you ask a friend for help and the task is how they make their living, they should be paid. For example, asking your friend who's a mechanic to look at your car; or your friend who's an accountant to help you with your taxes.
- It's considered polite to offer payment for the help and let the person decide whether or not to accept it.
- If you're in dire straits and cannot afford a monetary payment, you should explain your situation and either: 1) Offer to trade services if you have a specialized service they may be able to use; 2) Offer a non-monetary compensation, such as making the person dinner; or 3) Offer to make payment at a later date.
- Services between friends and family are typically charged at a discount, however you should use your discretion as every situation is different.
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