Frustrated? No, not really. Disappointed? Somewhat!
I work full time and I dabble part time. I’m fairly busy thus keep my hoof marks to a minimum and tackle to keep it interesting. Take only the projects that are interesting, creative and challenging. Some projects come from Ethiopians, and a few others not.
About a month ago, I had more than a small number of projects lined up. The money of course is lower than the median market price. Regardless, I was keen to transgress a few, being that it was something to do, and perhaps extra money.
As you know Ethiopians are akin to talking, they want to meet and jabber for an hour or so, albeit the fact the project requires only half an hour.
…wanna to talk; let’s talk. Just make sure you get me some buna"
Quoting the market price is sure to provoke a flinching reaction and thus will bring forth the negotiation ceremony and ending in a price lower than the market.
A client wanted to barter about 2,000$ of work, thought about it and believe it to be an insult. Another possible client had me decrease my price about 40% we met at least 3 times to waste my time telling him the mores of marketing a product to Ethiopians. At the end he gave the project to a non-Ethiopian business, most likely at a price twice what I quoted him. His lose! Only an Ethiopian would know the intricacies of advertising to the Ethiopian consumer.
….never carry out a project for an Abesha [Ethiopian] with out atleast half of the payment as a deposit!”
-The solitary advice given to me by a fellow Ethiopian Graphic Designer about 3 years ago.
Optimistically, it works out, and a deposit is sent. The contrary usual phenomenon is the deal falling through the cracks at this stage.
Yet another venture, once the negotiation was finalized the client disappeared. Been burned a few times over the years thus I’m content when they vanish prior to involvement of production. Continue reading ‘The Art of the Lost Deal!’
Published by Nolawi August 10th, 2006 in Design.
