The Freelancer's AI Toolkit

A client is questioning why my services cost what they do. Help me explain my pricing without being defensive.

Context:
- My service: [WHAT YOU DO]
- My price: $[AMOUNT]
- What the client said: "[THEIR EXACT OBJECTION]"
- What they might be comparing me to: [CHEAPER ALTERNATIVES — e.g., Fiverr, DIY tools, junior freelancers, agencies]

Write a response (under 150 words) that:
- Validates their concern (don't dismiss it)
- Explains 2–3 specific things they get with me that they won't get with the cheaper option
- Uses a concrete analogy or comparison to illustrate the value difference
- Includes one proof point (result, testimonial, or example)
- Ends with confidence, not desperation

Don't trash the cheap alternatives. Position them as "different solutions for different needs" and make clear which need I serve.

I want to re-engage a past client I haven't worked with in [TIMEFRAME].

About our past work:
- Client: [NAME/DESCRIPTION]
- Project we did together: [WHAT YOU DID]
- How it went: [BRIEF OUTCOME]
- Something new I can offer them: [NEW SKILL, SERVICE, OR IDEA]

Write a short, warm email (under 120 words) that:
- References our past work with a specific detail (not "we worked together a while back")
- Shares something genuinely useful — an industry trend, a quick tip, or an observation about their business
- Naturally opens the door to new work without making that the point of the email
- Feels like a real human reaching out, not a sales sequence

Subject line should feel personal, like it's from someone they know.

Write a freelance platform profile summary (150–200 words) for a [YOUR SKILL] who specializes in [YOUR NICHE/SPECIALTY].

Key details about me:
- Years of experience: [NUMBER]
- Types of clients I've worked with: [e.g., SaaS startups, e-commerce brands, local businesses]
- My best results: [1-2 SPECIFIC OUTCOMES — e.g., "increased conversion rates by 34%" or "delivered a full rebrand in 3 weeks"]
- What makes me different: [YOUR UNIQUE ANGLE]

The summary should:
- Open with a bold, specific statement (not "Hi, I'm a passionate freelancer")
- Focus on client outcomes, not my resume
- Include a clear "I'm the right fit if..." qualifier
- End with a soft call to action
- Use short paragraphs (2–3 sentences max each)

Write for a client who's scanning 20 profiles and will spend 10 seconds deciding whether to read more.

I sent [a proposal / a cold email / a project quote] to [CLIENT NAME/DESCRIPTION] about [BRIEF CONTEXT — what the project was] [NUMBER] days ago and haven't heard back.

Write a follow-up message (under 100 words) that:
- Doesn't guilt-trip or sound desperate
- Adds NEW value (a relevant idea, insight, or resource — not just "checking in")
- Gives them an easy out ("If the timing isn't right, no worries")
- Keeps the door open for future work

Tone: confident, helpful, zero neediness. I'd rather lose the project than sound desperate.

Help me build a referral system for my freelance business.

My situation:
- My service: [WHAT YOU DO]
- Number of past clients: [APPROXIMATE NUMBER]
- Current referral rate: [HOW MANY COME FROM REFERRALS — even a guess]
- Have I ever asked for referrals? [YES — how / NO]
- Am I willing to offer referral incentives? [YES / NO / MAYBE — what kind]
- My average project value: $[AMOUNT]

Create a referral system that includes:
1. When to ask — the exact moments in a client relationship when asking for referrals is natural (not awkward)
2. How to ask — 3 different scripts for different situations:
- Right after delivering a successful project
- During a check-in with a past client
- When someone compliments my work
3. Making it easy — what to give clients so they can refer me effortlessly (templates, links, etc.)
4. Incentive structure (if applicable) — what to offer without devaluing my work
5. Follow-up — how to thank referrers and close the loop
6. Tracking — simple system to track where referrals come from

Keep it simple enough that I'll actually do it. If it requires a complex CRM, I won't use it.

Help me do an annual review of my freelance business.

My numbers this year:
- Total revenue: $[AMOUNT]
- Number of clients: [NUMBER]
- Number of projects: [NUMBER]
- Average project value: $[AMOUNT]
- Biggest project: $[AMOUNT]
- Smallest project: $[AMOUNT]
- Revenue by month (approximate): [LIST OR DESCRIBE PATTERN]
- Expenses: $[AMOUNT]
- Hours worked per week (average): [NUMBER]

Qualitative:
- Best client/project this year: [DESCRIBE]
- Worst client/project this year: [DESCRIBE]
- New skills I developed: [LIST]
- How I got most clients: [SOURCE]
- Biggest challenge: [DESCRIBE]

Analyze this and give me:
1. My effective hourly rate (total revenue ÷ total hours)
2. Revenue concentration risk (am I too dependent on one client?)
3. Trend analysis (am I growing, plateauing, or declining?)
4. My 3 biggest wins to celebrate
5. My 3 biggest areas for improvement
6. Specific, actionable goals for next year (with numbers)
7. One thing I should START doing, one I should STOP doing, one I should CONTINUE

Be candid. This is my private business review — I need honesty, not encouragement.

Help me evaluate whether this potential client is a red flag or a green flag.

What I know about them:
- How they found me: [SOURCE]
- Their project: [DESCRIPTION]
- Their budget: [STATED BUDGET / "they haven't mentioned one"]
- Communication so far: [DESCRIBE — e.g., "very responsive," "took 2 weeks to reply," "sent 10 messages in one day"]
- Things they've said that gave me pause:
[PASTE SPECIFIC QUOTES OR DESCRIBE BEHAVIORS]
- Their timeline expectations: [REALISTIC / AGGRESSIVE / UNCLEAR]
- Do they have a contract? [YES / NO / THEY WANT TO USE THEIRS]
- Payment terms they proposed: [TERMS]

Evaluate this client based on common freelance red flags:
1. Rate each concern on a scale: 🟢 Normal, 🟡 Caution, 🔴 Red flag
2. Explain WHY each is or isn't concerning
3. Give me an overall assessment: proceed / proceed with safeguards / walk away
4. If "proceed with safeguards," tell me exactly what safeguards to put in place
5. Give me specific questions I should ask them to clarify the yellow/red flags

Base this on real freelancer experiences, not theoretical risks.

Help me do a skill gap analysis for my freelance career.

Where I am now:
- My core skill: [YOUR MAIN SKILL]
- Supporting skills: [SECONDARY SKILLS]
- Tools I use: [SOFTWARE, FRAMEWORKS, ETC.]
- My current average project value: $[AMOUNT]
- Types of clients I work with: [CLIENT PROFILE]
- Years of experience: [NUMBER]

Where I want to be in 12 months:
- Target average project value: $[AMOUNT]
- Types of clients I want: [IDEAL CLIENT]
- Services I want to offer: [DESIRED SERVICES]
- Income goal: $[AMOUNT]/year

Analyze:
1. What skills do I ALREADY have that I'm underusing or undervaluing?
2. What 2-3 skills would have the biggest impact on my income if I developed them?
3. What skills are "nice to have" vs. "essential" for my goals?
4. For each essential skill gap:
- How to learn it (specific resources, not "take an online course")
- How long it'll realistically take
- How to start monetizing it before I'm an expert
5. Is there a skill I should STOP investing time in?

Be specific and strategic. I don't want to learn everything — I want to learn the RIGHT things.

Help me identify the best freelance niche for my skills and goals.

About me:
- My broad skill: [e.g., graphic design, web development, writing, marketing]
- Specific things I'm good at: [LIST 3-5 SUB-SKILLS]
- Industries I have experience in: [LIST INDUSTRIES]
- Types of projects I enjoy most: [WHAT ENERGIZES YOU]
- Types of projects I dislike: [WHAT DRAINS YOU]
- My income goal: $[AMOUNT]/year
- How I find clients now: [CURRENT METHOD]
- Am I willing to learn new skills? [YES / NO / SOMEWHAT]

Analyze this and suggest:
1. 3 niche options — specific enough to differentiate me, broad enough to sustain a business. For each:
- The niche definition (who I serve + what I do)
- Why it's a good fit based on my profile
- Market demand (is there money here?)
- Competition level (oversaturated vs. underserved)
- How I'd position myself

2. Which niche to start with and why

3. A 30-day test plan to validate the niche before committing

Be honest. If my skills don't align with high-paying niches, tell me what gap to fill.

Write a "How I Work" document I can share with new clients that covers my standard terms in a friendly, non-legalistic way.

My standard terms:
- Payment: [YOUR TERMS — e.g., 50% upfront, Net 15]
- Revisions: [NUMBER] rounds included
- Timeline: I typically deliver [TYPE OF WORK] in [TIMEFRAME]
- Communication: [YOUR PREFERENCES — e.g., email for everything, weekly calls]
- Working hours: [YOUR HOURS AND TIMEZONE]
- Rush work: [YOUR POLICY — e.g., +50% for rush delivery]
- Cancellation: [YOUR POLICY]
- File formats I deliver: [FORMATS]

Write this as a warm, professional one-pager that:
- Frames each term as a BENEFIT to the client (not a restriction)
- Uses conversational language (not contract-speak)
- Sets expectations clearly so there are no surprises
- Makes me look professional and organized
- Includes a brief "What I need from you" section

This is NOT a legal contract — it's a relationship-setting document. Keep it under 400 words.

I'm a freelancer in [COUNTRY] and I need help understanding how to categorize my business expenses for tax purposes.

My expenses to categorize:
1. [EXPENSE 1 — e.g., "Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, $55/month"]
2. [EXPENSE 2 — e.g., "Home office — I use one room of my apartment"]
3. [EXPENSE 3 — e.g., "New laptop, $1,500"]
4. [EXPENSE 4 — e.g., "Coffee meeting with a client"]
5. [EXPENSE 5 — e.g., "Online course about UX design"]
[ADD MORE AS NEEDED]

For each expense:
- Suggested tax category (using standard categories for my country)
- Whether it's fully or partially deductible
- Any documentation I should keep
- Any limits or rules I should know about

Also suggest:
- Common freelance deductions I might be missing
- Whether I should be tracking mileage, home office percentage, etc.
- A simple system for tracking expenses throughout the year

Disclaimer: This is general guidance, not tax advice. I should consult a tax professional for my specific situation.

Create a freelance contract template for my [TYPE OF SERVICE] services.

My details:
- My business name: [NAME]
- My location/jurisdiction: [CITY, STATE/COUNTRY]
- Typical project type: [DESCRIPTION]
- How I usually get paid: [PAYMENT METHOD]
- My standard payment terms: [e.g., 50% upfront, 50% on completion]

Generate a contract template with these sections:
1. Parties (me and the client)
2. Scope of Work (with placeholder)
3. Timeline and Deliverables
4. Pricing and Payment Terms
5. Revision Policy ([NUMBER] rounds included)
6. Intellectual Property (IP transfers ONLY after full payment)
7. Confidentiality
8. Cancellation/Kill Fee (what happens if they cancel mid-project)
9. Late Payment (fees and consequences)
10. Liability Limitation
11. Independent Contractor Status
12. Dispute Resolution
13. Signatures and Date

Use clear, readable language — not dense legalese. Include [BRACKETED PLACEHOLDERS] for project-specific details. Add brief comments explaining why each section matters.

Note: This is a starting template. Remind me to have it reviewed by a lawyer in my jurisdiction before using it professionally.

A client owes me $[AMOUNT] and is [NUMBER] days overdue. Previous friendly reminders haven't worked. I need to escalate.

Context:
- Our contract includes late payment terms: [YES — what terms / NO]
- Am I currently doing work for them? [YES / NO]
- Do I want to preserve this relationship? [YES / NO / INDIFFERENT]
- Am I willing to pause/stop work? [YES / NO]

Write a firm but professional message that:
- States the facts plainly (amount, dates, previous reminders)
- Announces a specific consequence with a specific deadline:
- [If applicable] Work will be paused until payment is received
- [If applicable] Late fees of [PERCENTAGE]% will be applied
- [If applicable] This will be escalated to [collections / legal]
- Gives them a final deadline: [DATE]
- Provides payment details/link for easy action
- Stays professional — this might be read by their accounts team, not just my contact

Under 150 words. No emotion, just business.

I received a contract for a freelance project and need help understanding it. I'm not looking for legal advice — I want plain-English explanations so I can have an informed conversation with the client (or a lawyer).

Here are the clauses I need explained:

[PASTE THE CONTRACT CLAUSES YOU'RE UNSURE ABOUT]

For each clause:
1. Explain what it means in plain English
2. Rate it: 🟢 Standard/fair, 🟡 Worth negotiating, 🔴 Potentially problematic
3. Explain why it matters for ME as the freelancer
4. If it's 🟡 or 🔴, suggest alternative language I could propose

Also flag if any of these common protections are MISSING from what I've shared:
- Kill fee / cancellation clause
- Payment terms and late payment penalties
- IP transfer timing (only after full payment)
- Revision limits
- Liability caps

Disclaimer: I understand this isn't legal advice and I should consult a lawyer for important contracts.

My client hasn't paid an invoice and I need to follow up.

Details:
- Client: [NAME]
- Invoice amount: $[AMOUNT]
- Invoice date: [DATE]
- Payment terms: [e.g., Net 30, due on receipt]
- Days overdue: [NUMBER]
- Our relationship: [GOOD / NEUTRAL / ALREADY STRAINED]
- Have I followed up before? [YES — how many times / NO]

Write 3 follow-up messages at increasing levels of firmness:

1. Friendly reminder (for 1-7 days overdue) — assume it's an oversight. Under 60 words.
2. Firm follow-up (for 14-30 days overdue) — reference payment terms, request specific action. Under 80 words.
3. Final notice (for 30+ days overdue) — mention consequences (pausing work, late fees, collections). Under 100 words. Professional but unmistakably serious.

Each message should:
- Reference the specific invoice (number/date/amount)
- Include a clear action: "Please process payment by [DATE]"
- Maintain professionalism throughout (even #3)
- NOT be passive-aggressive

Also include: a brief note on when it's appropriate to involve a lawyer or collections agency.

I want to share a client result publicly. Help me do it without bragging or violating confidentiality.

The result:
- What I did: [THE WORK]
- The outcome: [MEASURABLE RESULT]
- Client details I CAN share: [WHAT'S PUBLIC]
- Client details I CANNOT share: [WHAT'S CONFIDENTIAL]
- Platform I'm posting on: [LINKEDIN / TWITTER / WEBSITE / INSTAGRAM]

Write a post that:
- Leads with the RESULT, not with me
- Credits the client's vision / team / product (share the spotlight)
- Explains briefly what we did (process in 1-2 sentences)
- Shows the numbers or transformation
- Includes a learning or insight that makes it valuable to the reader (not just self-promotion)
- Closes with a forward-looking statement or question
- Keeps the client anonymous if needed, without being obviously secretive

Length: appropriate for [PLATFORM]. Tone: proud but humble. The post should make the reader think "I want results like that" not "this person loves themselves."

Write an email newsletter for my freelance audience.

My audience:

[WHO READS THIS — past clients, prospects, peers]

Newsletter topic:

[THE TOPIC OR THEME]

My angle/insight:

[YOUR SPECIFIC TAKE]

Context:
- Something recent that inspired this: [A PROJECT, AN ARTICLE, A TREND]
- One actionable tip I want to share: [THE TIP]
- What I want the reader to do after reading: [GOAL — e.g., reply, click, think differently, remember me]

Write a newsletter email that:
- Has a subject line that gets opened (curiosity or value-driven, not clickbait)
- Opens with a story or observation (not "In this week's newsletter...")
- Gets to the point within 3 sentences
- Delivers one genuinely useful insight or tip
- Is under 300 words (respect their time)
- Has a personal, conversational tone
- Ends with either a question to spark replies or a soft mention of my availability
- Doesn't feel like marketing — feels like a smart friend sharing something useful

Write my professional bio in 4 lengths: tweet-size, short, medium, and full.

About me:
- Name: [YOUR NAME]
- What I do: [YOUR SERVICE — be specific]
- Specialty/niche: [YOUR FOCUS AREA]
- Years of experience: [NUMBER]
- Notable clients or industries: [LIST]
- Key achievement: [YOUR BEST RESULT OR CREDENTIAL]
- Personal touch: [SOMETHING HUMAN — a hobby, a quirk, where you live]
- Tone preference: [PROFESSIONAL / CASUAL / WITTY / AUTHORITATIVE]

Write:
1. Tweet bio (under 160 characters) — for Twitter, social bios
2. Short bio (2-3 sentences) — for guest posts, podcast intros
3. Medium bio (one paragraph, 80-100 words) — for speaking, bylines, About pages
4. Full bio (2 paragraphs, 150-200 words) — for proposals, detailed About pages

Each version should:
- Lead with what I do and who I help (not "I'm a passionate...")
- Include a credential or proof point
- Have personality (not corporate-speak)
- The longer versions should BUILD on the shorter ones, not contradict them

Help me write a case study from a completed project.

Project information:
- Client (anonymized or with permission): [CLIENT TYPE/NAME]
- Industry: [THEIR INDUSTRY]
- Their problem/challenge: [WHAT THEY WERE STRUGGLING WITH]
- What they tried before: [PREVIOUS SOLUTIONS THAT DIDN'T WORK]
- What I proposed: [MY APPROACH]
- What I delivered: [SPECIFIC DELIVERABLES]
- Timeline: [HOW LONG]
- Results: [MEASURABLE OUTCOMES — be as specific as possible]
- Client quote (if available): "[THEIR WORDS]"

Write a case study with these sections:
1. The Challenge (2-3 sentences — make the reader feel the pain)
2. The Approach (3-4 sentences — what I did and WHY, not just what)
3. The Execution (2-3 sentences — any interesting process details)
4. The Results (bullet points with numbers)
5. Key Takeaway (1 sentence — the insight that makes this case study valuable beyond just self-promotion)

Total: 300-400 words. Write it for potential clients who have the same problem. The hero of the story should be the RESULT, not me.

Write a LinkedIn post about [TOPIC] that positions me as a knowledgeable [YOUR SKILL] without being self-promotional or cringy.

Topic: [CHOOSE ONE]:
- A lesson I learned from a recent project: [THE LESSON]
- A common mistake I see in my field: [THE MISTAKE]
- A behind-the-scenes look at my process: [THE PROCESS]
- An opinion about the industry: [YOUR TAKE]
- A client win (anonymized): [THE WIN]

My perspective/angle: [YOUR UNIQUE TAKE ON THIS]

The post should:
- Open with a hook line that stops the scroll (not "I'm thrilled to announce...")
- Share a genuine insight, not generic advice
- Include a specific story, example, or data point
- Be 100-150 words (short enough to read, long enough to be valuable)
- End with a question or insight, NOT a call to action like "DM me for services"
- Use short paragraphs (1-2 sentences each — LinkedIn formatting)
- No hashtag spam (3 max, only if relevant)

Write like a real person sharing something they learned, not a thought leader performing.

Write a portfolio description for a project I completed.

Project details:
- Client type: [INDUSTRY / SIZE — not their name unless they've approved]
- What they needed: [THE PROBLEM OR GOAL]
- What I delivered: [DELIVERABLES]
- My role: [WHAT I SPECIFICALLY DID]
- Tools/technologies used: [LIST THEM]
- Key results: [METRICS, OUTCOMES — e.g., "increased signups by 40%," "delivered in 2 weeks"]
- Challenge I overcame: [AN INTERESTING OBSTACLE]

Write a portfolio entry with:
- A compelling headline (not "Project for [Client]" — make it outcome-focused)
- A 2-3 sentence summary that hooks someone scanning my portfolio
- A "Challenge → Approach → Result" narrative (4-6 sentences)
- 3 bullet points of key outcomes
- A brief note on what made this project unique

Write for a potential client who's deciding whether to hire me. Focus on the BUSINESS IMPACT, not just what I built. Under 200 words.

Help me prioritize and organize my current project workload.

My active projects:
1. [PROJECT 1]: Deadline [DATE], estimated [HOURS] remaining, client urgency [LOW/MED/HIGH], payment [AMOUNT]

2. [PROJECT 2]: Deadline [DATE], estimated [HOURS] remaining, client urgency [LOW/MED/HIGH], payment [AMOUNT]

3. [PROJECT 3]: Deadline [DATE], estimated [HOURS] remaining, client urgency [LOW/MED/HIGH], payment [AMOUNT]

[ADD MORE AS NEEDED]

My available hours this week: [NUMBER]

Help me:
1. Create a priority matrix (urgent/important grid)
2. Identify which project needs attention TODAY
3. Suggest a daily schedule for this week
4. Flag any projects at risk of missing deadline
5. Identify if I'm overcommitted (be honest)
6. Recommend what to delegate, postpone, or renegotiate if I'm over capacity

Be practical and direct. If I've taken on too much, tell me — don't sugarcoat it.

Help me do a project post-mortem for my own improvement.

Project:

[PROJECT NAME/DESCRIPTION]

Client:

[CLIENT TYPE — not their name, for your private notes]

Duration:

[HOW LONG IT TOOK]

Price charged:

$[AMOUNT]

Estimated hours:

[ORIGINAL ESTIMATE]

Actual hours:

[REAL HOURS]

Walk me through these questions:
1. Was this project profitable? Calculate my effective hourly rate.
2. What went well? (Help me identify my strengths)
3. What went wrong or took longer than expected?
4. Did scope creep happen? If so, how could I have prevented it?
5. How was client communication? What would I change?
6. Would I take this type of project again? At what price?
7. What should I change in my process for next time?
8. Is this project portfolio-worthy? If so, what's the case study angle?

Be honest and analytical. This is for my eyes only. Give me actionable takeaways, not feel-good platitudes.

Break this project into clear milestones with deliverables and timelines:

Project: [PROJECT DESCRIPTION]
Total timeline: [DURATION]
Total budget: $[AMOUNT]
Key deliverables: [LIST ALL FINAL DELIVERABLES]

For each milestone, include:
- Milestone name
- What's delivered at this stage
- Duration
- Payment amount (if using milestone-based payments)
- What I need from the client at this stage
- Definition of "done" for this milestone

Also include:
- Buffer time between milestones for client feedback
- A note about what happens if a milestone is delayed by the client
- Suggested review/approval windows

Format it as a clean table or timeline I can share with the client. Include 4-6 milestones depending on project complexity.

Project type: [TYPE — e.g., website redesign, brand identity, content strategy, app development]
My role: [YOUR ROLE]

The brief should ask about:
- Business background (who they are, what they do, their market)
- Project goals (what success looks like, measurable objectives)
- Target audience (demographics, pain points, behaviors)
- Scope and deliverables (what they expect to receive)
- Brand guidelines or existing assets
- Competitors or inspiration (what they like and don't like)
- Timeline and deadlines
- Budget (tactful framing)
- Decision-making process (who approves what)
- Technical requirements or constraints

Format it as a clean, numbered questionnaire they can fill out. Include brief explanatory notes under complex questions. Add 2-3 questions specific to [PROJECT TYPE] that a less experienced freelancer might forget to ask.

Keep it under 20 questions — thorough but not overwhelming.

Create a clear Scope of Work (SOW) document for this freelance project:

Project details:
- Client: [CLIENT NAME]
- Project name: [NAME]
- My role: [YOUR ROLE — e.g., lead designer, content strategist]
- Project description: [2-3 SENTENCES ABOUT WHAT THE PROJECT IS]
- Deliverables: [LIST ALL DELIVERABLES]
- Timeline: [START DATE] to [END DATE]
- Milestones: [KEY DATES OR PHASES]
- Price: $[TOTAL] — [PAYMENT STRUCTURE: e.g., 50% upfront, 50% on completion]
- Number of revision rounds included: [NUMBER]
- What's NOT included: [ANYTHING YOU WANT TO EXPLICITLY EXCLUDE]

Format the SOW with these sections:
1. Project Overview
2. Scope & Deliverables (detailed)
3. Timeline & Milestones
4. Pricing & Payment Schedule
5. Revision Policy
6. Out of Scope
7. Client Responsibilities (what you need from them)
8. Acceptance Criteria (how they approve the work)

Use clear, professional language. This document should prevent scope creep and misunderstandings. Make it firm but not aggressive.

Create a professional rate card for my freelance services.

My services:
- Primary service: [SERVICE 1 — description and typical deliverable]
- Secondary service: [SERVICE 2]
- Additional services: [SERVICE 3, 4, etc.]

My details:
- Skill level: [JUNIOR / MID / SENIOR / EXPERT]
- Market: [YOUR TARGET MARKET — e.g., US startups, European SMBs]
- Current rates: [YOUR CURRENT RATES, if any]

Build a rate card that includes:
- Service categories with clear descriptions
- Price ranges (not single numbers — ranges give negotiation room)
- What's included in each service
- What costs extra (rush fees, additional revisions, etc.)
- Minimum project size
- Rush delivery surcharge percentage
- Payment terms summary

Format it cleanly so I can convert it to a PDF. Use professional language that positions me as mid-to-premium tier. Include a note about custom quotes for larger projects.

I've been asked to do a project I haven't priced before and I'm not sure what to charge.

The project:
- What they want: [DETAILED DESCRIPTION]
- Client type: [SIZE / INDUSTRY]
- My skill level for this specific work: [BEGINNER / INTERMEDIATE / EXPERT]
- My usual hourly rate for my core services: $[RATE]
- Estimated time to complete: [YOUR BEST GUESS — be honest if uncertain]
- Comparable services I've seen online: [ANY RESEARCH YOU'VE DONE]

Help me:
1. Break the project into phases/components and estimate time for each
2. Identify hidden time sinks I might not have considered
3. Research what this type of work typically costs (give me ranges)
4. Recommend a price (with your reasoning)
5. Suggest how to present the quote (fixed project fee vs. hourly vs. phased)
6. Give me a confidence buffer percentage to add for unknowns

Be honest if I might be underestimating the complexity.

I'm in a pricing negotiation with a client. Give me response scripts for each of these scenarios:

My details:
- My service: [YOUR SERVICE]
- My quoted price: $[AMOUNT]
- Project: [BRIEF DESCRIPTION]

Write short, confident responses (2–4 sentences each) for these situations:

1. "Your competitor charges less."
2. "Can you do it for [LOWER AMOUNT]?"
3. "We don't have that budget right now."
4. "Can you do this one cheaper and we'll send you more work later?"
5. "We love your work but the price is too high."
6. "Our internal team could probably do this."
7. "Can you give us a discount since we're a startup?"

For each response: stand firm on value, offer alternatives where smart, and never badmouth competitors or sound defensive. Include a brief strategy note explaining the psychology behind each response.

I need to raise my rates with an existing client.

Details:
- Client: [NAME/DESCRIPTION]
- How long we've worked together: [DURATION]
- Current rate: [CURRENT RATE]
- New rate: [NEW RATE]
- Percentage increase: [PERCENTAGE]
- When the increase takes effect: [DATE — give at least 30 days notice]
- Reason: [WHY — e.g., increased experience, market rates, expanded scope, cost of living]

Write an email (under 150 words) that:
- Announces the new rate directly (don't bury it)
- Gives a clear effective date
- Briefly explains why (1–2 sentences, not a justification essay)
- Acknowledges the value of our relationship
- Offers to discuss if they have questions
- Does NOT apologize for charging more

Tone: professional, matter-of-fact, confident. This is a normal business practice, not a confession.

Help me create a value-based pricing proposal for this project:

The project:
- Client: [TYPE OF CLIENT — e.g., "e-commerce brand doing $2M/year"]
- What they want: [THE DELIVERABLE]
- The business problem it solves: [WHAT PAIN THIS ADDRESSES]
- Estimated impact if done well: [e.g., "could increase conversions by 15-20%" or "saves their team 10 hours/week"]
- How long it'll take me: [HOURS/DAYS]
- What I'd normally charge (hourly rate × time): $[AMOUNT]

Create a proposal structure that:
- Frames the price around their ROI, not my hours
- Presents 3 tiers (Good / Better / Best) with clear differences between each
- Makes the middle tier the obvious choice
- Includes a brief "investment vs. return" framing
- Gives specific prices for each tier: low tier around $[LOW], middle around $[MID], high around $[HIGH]

Help me articulate WHY this is worth $[MID] without mentioning how many hours it takes me.

Help me calculate a sustainable freelance rate.

My details:
- Desired annual income (take-home): $[AMOUNT]
- Country/location: [WHERE YOU ARE — affects tax estimates]
- Estimated tax rate: [PERCENTAGE, or say "help me estimate"]
- Business expenses per month (tools, software, insurance, etc.): $[AMOUNT]
- Vacation weeks per year: [NUMBER]
- Sick/personal days per year: [NUMBER]
- Hours per week I can actually bill (not admin, not marketing — actual client work): [NUMBER]

Calculate:
1. My minimum hourly rate to hit my income goal
2. My recommended hourly rate (with a 20% buffer for dry spells)
3. A suggested day rate
4. How to translate this into project pricing (with a simple formula)

Show the math clearly. Then give me a reality check — is this rate competitive for a [YOUR SKILL] with [YEARS] years of experience in [YOUR MARKET]?

My client/prospect wants to pay less than what I quoted.

The situation:
- My quote: [YOUR PRICE]
- What they said: [THEIR RESPONSE — e.g., "That's over our budget," "Can you do it for $X?", "Our last freelancer charged half that"]
- The project: [BRIEF DESCRIPTION]
- How much I want this project (1-10): [NUMBER]
- My minimum acceptable price: [YOUR FLOOR]

Write a response (under 120 words) that uses ONE of these strategies (pick the best fit):

a) Hold firm — reaffirm the value, don't budge
b) Reduce scope — offer a smaller version at their budget
c) Offer a compromise — small discount with a condition (faster payment, testimonial, referral)
d) Walk away gracefully — decline without burning the bridge

Whichever strategy you choose, the response should be confident, not defensive. Never trash-talk other freelancers' pricing. Focus on what they GET, not what it costs.

I just completed a project for [CLIENT NAME]. Write an end-of-project wrap-up email that leaves a great final impression.

Project: [WHAT YOU DID]
Key deliverables: [LIST THEM]
Results/outcomes: [ANY MEASURABLE RESULTS]
Files/assets to hand off: [WHAT YOU'RE DELIVERING]

The email should:
- Summarize what was accomplished (make THEM feel good about their investment)
- List all deliverables and where to find them
- Include any relevant next steps or maintenance tips
- Mention that you're available for future work (subtle, not salesy)
- Thank them specifically (reference something unique about working with them)
- Ask if there's anything else they need before closing out

Under 200 words. Professional, warm, memorable.

I need to deliver bad news to my client.

The situation:
- What happened: [THE PROBLEM — e.g., missed deadline, technical issue, underestimated scope]
- Impact on the project: [WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THEM]
- Why it happened: [HONEST REASON — no BS]
- My plan to fix it: [YOUR SOLUTION]
- New timeline/expectations: [REVISED PLAN]

Write a message (under 150 words) that:
- Leads with the news directly (don't build up to it)
- Takes responsibility without excessive self-flagellation
- Focuses 70% on the solution and 30% on the problem
- Gives them a revised timeline or expectation
- Doesn't make promises I can't keep
- Offers something to make it right if appropriate (discount, expedited delivery, extra deliverable)

Tone: honest, accountable, solution-focused. Clients can handle bad news — what they can't handle is surprises and no plan.

My client has been [DESCRIBE THE BOUNDARY ISSUE — e.g., "texting me at 11pm," "expecting same-day turnarounds on everything," "calling without scheduling," "sending 15 messages a day"].

Our working relationship:
- How long we've worked together: [DURATION]
- Overall relationship quality: [GOOD / OKAY / TENSE]
- What I want to change: [YOUR DESIRED BOUNDARY]

Write a message (under 120 words) that:
- Sets the boundary clearly and specifically (not vague hints)
- Frames it as something that will improve the quality of my work for THEM
- Offers an alternative that works for both of us
- Doesn't blame them or sound passive-aggressive
- Is warm but firm

The message should feel like I'm improving our working relationship, not complaining about them.

I just finished a project with [CLIENT NAME] and it went well. I want to ask for a testimonial without making it awkward.

Project context:
- What I did: [PROJECT SUMMARY]
- Key result/outcome: [WHAT WENT WELL]
- Where I'll use the testimonial: [WEBSITE / LINKEDIN / FREELANCE PLATFORM]

Write two things:

1. A short message (under 80 words) asking for the testimonial that:
   - References a specific positive moment from our project
   - Makes it easy for them (suggests they can keep it to 2–3 sentences)
   - Offers to draft something they can edit (reduces their effort)
   - Doesn't pressure them

2. A draft testimonial (2–3 sentences) written from their perspective that I can offer as a starting point. Base it on the project results above. Make it sound like a real person wrote it, not a marketer.

My client gave me feedback that's [VAGUE / HARSH / CONTRADICTORY / UNREASONABLE]. I need to respond professionally without being a pushover.

The feedback they gave:

[PASTE THEIR EXACT FEEDBACK]

Context:
- The deliverable: [WHAT YOU DELIVERED]
- The original brief/direction: [WHAT THEY ASKED FOR]
- How many revision rounds we've done: [NUMBER]
- Revisions included in our agreement: [NUMBER]

Write a response that:
- Stays calm and professional (even if their feedback was rude)
- Asks clarifying questions to turn vague feedback into actionable direction
- If their feedback contradicts the original brief, diplomatically points that out
- Proposes a clear path forward (specific next steps)
- If we've exceeded included revisions, mentions that additional rounds are billed at [RATE]

Keep it under 150 words. Don't be defensive, but don't be a doormat either.

I need to say no to [a project / a request / additional work] from [CLIENT OR PROSPECT].

The situation:
- What they're asking: [THE REQUEST]
- Why I'm declining: [REASON — e.g., too busy, not my expertise, red flags, bad fit, underbudget]
- Do I want to leave the door open for future work? [YES / NO]
- Should I refer them to someone else? [YES — if so, who / NO]

Write a response (under 100 words) that:
- Says no clearly in the first two sentences (don't bury it)
- Gives a brief, honest reason (without over-explaining)
- If applicable, offers an alternative (referral, future timeline, adjusted scope)
- Ends warmly
- Doesn't apologize excessively — "no" is a complete business decision

Tone: respectful, direct, confident. No guilt.

My client just asked me to do something outside our agreed scope.

Original scope:

[WHAT WE AGREED ON]

What they're now asking for:

[THE NEW REQUEST]

How significant is it:

[SMALL ADDITION / MEDIUM EXTRA WORK / BASICALLY A NEW PROJECT]

Our relationship so far:

[GOOD / ROCKY / NEW]

My preference:

[DO IT FOR EXTRA PAY / PUSH BACK / DO IT AS GOODWILL THIS ONCE]

Write a response (under 150 words) that:
- Acknowledges their request positively (don't make them feel bad for asking)
- Clearly identifies it as outside the current scope
- Offers options: (a) add it to this project for $[AMOUNT], (b) tackle it as a separate project after, or (c) [YOUR PREFERRED OPTION]
- Keeps the relationship warm
- Is firm but not confrontational

If this is a small ask and I want to do it as goodwill, write a version that sets a boundary for next time while being generous now.

Write a project status update email for my client.

Project: [PROJECT NAME]
Current phase: [WHERE YOU ARE — e.g., "Week 2 of 4, design phase"]

What I completed since last update:
- [COMPLETED ITEM 1]
- [COMPLETED ITEM 2]

What I'm working on next:
- [NEXT ITEM 1]
- [NEXT ITEM 2]

Any blockers or things I need from them:
- [BLOCKER OR REQUEST, if any — or "None"]

Overall status: [ON TRACK / SLIGHTLY BEHIND — be honest / AHEAD OF SCHEDULE]

Write this as a concise email (under 150 words) that:
- Leads with the most important update
- Uses bullet points for scannability
- Flags any risks early (don't hide problems)
- Ends with a clear action item or "no action needed from you"
- Sounds confident and in control

If things are behind, frame it honestly but with a recovery plan.

I just landed a new project. Write a client onboarding email that makes me look organized and sets the project up for success.

Project details:
- Client name: [NAME]
- Project: [BRIEF DESCRIPTION]
- Timeline: [START DATE — END DATE]
- Key deliverables: [LIST THEM]
- My next step: [WHAT YOU NEED FROM THEM TO START]

The email should:
- Congratulate them on their decision (briefly, not sycophantically)
- Summarize what we agreed on (scope, timeline, price)
- List exactly what I need from them to get started (access, assets, info)
- Set communication expectations (how often I'll update them, preferred channel)
- Include a "quick question" to get them engaged immediately
- Attach or reference any relevant documents (contract, brief, etc.)

Tone: organized, confident, excited to start. Under 250 words.

A potential client just asked me "What's your rate?" or "What do you charge?" before we've discussed the project in detail.

Context:
- My typical rate: [YOUR RATE/RANGE]
- The prospect: [WHAT YOU KNOW ABOUT THEM]
- The project (what little I know): [ANY DETAILS]
- My goal: [e.g., get on a call, understand scope first, quote project-based]

Write a reply (under 100 words) that:
- Doesn't dodge the question (that's annoying)
- Gives a general range so they can self-qualify
- Pivots to understanding their project first, because final pricing depends on scope
- Positions me as someone who prices based on value/outcomes, not just hours
- Keeps the conversation moving forward

Tone: direct, professional, no games. Don't make them feel like asking about price was wrong.

Create a one-page service pitch document for my freelance [SERVICE NAME] offering.

Details:
- Service: [WHAT YOU DO — be specific]
- Target client: [WHO THIS IS FOR]
- Key problem I solve: [THE PAIN POINT]
- My process: [3-5 STEPS OF HOW YOU WORK]
- Typical results: [OUTCOMES / METRICS]
- Price range: [RANGE OR "STARTING AT $X"]
- Timeline: [TYPICAL PROJECT DURATION]

Format the document with:
- A compelling headline (not just the service name)
- A 2-sentence summary of the transformation I provide
- 3 bullet points: the problem, my approach, the result
- A "This is for you if..." section (3 qualifiers)
- A "This isn't for you if..." section (2 disqualifiers — this builds trust)
- Clear next step / CTA

Keep it scannable. Use short sentences. No jargon.

I'm recording a 60–90 second Loom video to accompany my proposal for [PROJECT DESCRIPTION]. The video should feel personal and show that I actually looked at their [website/project/business].

What I noticed about their business: [SPECIFIC OBSERVATIONS]
My relevant experience: [BRIEF EXPERIENCE]
My proposed approach: [HIGH-LEVEL APPROACH]

Write a casual video script that:
- Opens with their name and a specific compliment or observation (first 10 seconds matter)
- Walks through ONE key idea for their project
- Briefly mentions why I'm a good fit (under 15 seconds)
- Ends with a clear next step

Keep it conversational — not a script I read word-for-word, but talking points I can riff on naturally. Include PAUSE markers where I should show their website/work on screen.

I'm a freelance [YOUR SKILL] applying for a project that's a level above my usual clients. I want my proposal to feel like it belongs at this budget level.

The project:
- Description: [PROJECT DETAILS]
- Budget range: [BUDGET]
- Client type: [e.g., funded startup, enterprise company, established brand]

My relevant experience:
- [EXPERIENCE POINT 1]
- [EXPERIENCE POINT 2]
- [EXPERIENCE POINT 3]

Write a proposal (200–250 words) that:
- Leads with strategic thinking, not just execution skills
- Shows I understand business impact, not just deliverables
- Uses confident, peer-level language (not subordinate/grateful tone)
- Mentions my process briefly — enough to signal professionalism
- Includes a specific suggestion or idea for their project that shows I've already started thinking about it

No exclamation points. No "I'd be thrilled." Write like someone who regularly works at this level.

I just completed a [TYPE OF PROJECT] for [CLIENT NAME/DESCRIPTION]. The project went well — [BRIEF POSITIVE OUTCOME]. I want to pitch them on a monthly retainer.

Context about the client:
- Their business: [WHAT THEY DO]
- What I delivered: [PROJECT SUMMARY]
- Ongoing needs I've noticed: [THINGS THEY'LL NEED REGULARLY]
- My proposed retainer scope: [WHAT YOU'D DO MONTHLY]
- Price range I'm thinking: [YOUR RANGE]

Write a short pitch message (150–200 words) that:
- References the success of our project together
- Identifies a specific ongoing problem they probably have
- Frames the retainer as saving them time/money vs. hiring per-project
- Proposes a simple structure (hours or deliverables per month)
- Suggests a trial month to reduce their risk

Don't be pushy. Frame it as "this might make sense" not "you need this."

Write a freelance platform profile summary (150–200 words) for a [YOUR SKILL] who specializes in [YOUR NICHE/SPECIALTY].

Key details about me:
- Years of experience: [NUMBER]
- Types of clients I've worked with: [e.g., SaaS startups, e-commerce brands, local businesses]
- My best results: [1-2 SPECIFIC OUTCOMES — e.g., "increased conversion rates by 34%" or "delivered a full rebrand in 3 weeks"]
- What makes me different: [YOUR UNIQUE ANGLE]

The summary should:
- Open with a bold, specific statement (not "Hi, I'm a passionate freelancer")
- Focus on client outcomes, not my resume
- Include a clear "I'm the right fit if..." qualifier
- End with a soft call to action
- Use short paragraphs (2–3 sentences max each)

Write for a client who's scanning 20 profiles and will spend 10 seconds deciding whether to read more.

You are a freelance [YOUR SKILL] crafting a cold outreach email to a potential client.

About the prospect:
- Company/person: [NAME]
- What they do: [BRIEF DESCRIPTION]
- Something specific I noticed about their business: [SPECIFIC OBSERVATION — e.g., "their landing page has no clear CTA" or "they just launched a new product line"]
- How I can help: [THE VALUE YOU'D PROVIDE]

Write a cold email (under 150 words) that:
1. Opens with the specific observation — show I've done my homework
2. Connects that observation to a result I can deliver
3. Includes one concrete proof point (a result, a metric, a relevant client)
4. Asks ONE low-commitment question (not "can we hop on a call?")
5. Uses a subject line that's curiosity-driven, not salesy

No flattery. No "I hope this finds you well." Get to the point fast.

You are an experienced freelance [YOUR SKILL — e.g., copywriter, web developer, brand designer] who wins projects by writing concise, specific proposals that directly address what the client needs.

Here is the job post:

[PASTE THE FULL JOB POST]

Write a proposal (150–200 words) that:
- Opens with a specific observation about THEIR project (not a generic intro)
- Mentions 1–2 relevant pieces of my experience: [BRIEF RELEVANT EXPERIENCE]
- Addresses their biggest likely concern or goal
- Proposes a clear next step (not "let me know if you're interested")
- Ends confidently but not arrogantly

Tone: professional, direct, warm. No filler phrases like "I came across your listing" or "I'd love the opportunity."