Manager asking for service 3

[Thoe99]

I have a manager in which I'm half cool with, half professional with. I'm holding a parttime job right now that has nothing to do with computers or websites. The thing is, I can tell he's been kissing up to me to a certain degree so that I can be lenient on charging him for my services. He's approached me a few times on the idea of a website he needs done, which would involve flash designing, and a shopping cart.

The thing is, he's cheap, and expects me to do cheap work for him. If I decline, it would be weird at work, since he's working with me all the time, and he'd be let down. Anyone else run into situations similar to this, where friends/coworkers/bosses ask you for cheap work?

 

[DonQuichote]

Yes, I have. I don't do 'cheap work', except for fun (hobby). And only for very good friends. Make this clear from the very beginning. Probably your boss is just trying out how far he can go. Don't feel intimidated.

Good luck

 

[CajunCenturion]

Let him know what your rates and policies are. Like DonQuichote[b/], very close friends and family are the only one for whom I give away my time. It will be extremly costly for you in the long run if you set a very bad precedent. You might think it would be weird if you say no to him now, but think of how weird it would be it you said yes. Six months from now when he want something else, you're stuck. Keep the relationship professional. Good Luck
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As a circle of light increases so does the circumference of darkness around it. - Albert Einstein

 

[Kjonnnn]

I think you should state you prices very matter of factly, not like its a big deal.

Some thing like:

HIM: Here's the web site I'd like you to do for me ..yada yada yada.

YOU: Hmmm. That's nice, now you realize my fee for doing something like that is $XXX.XX.

HIM: WHAT! You can't can get me a break or a big discount?

YOU: That's what I charge. Plus, at least since we're friends you'll know I'll do a good job for you. So, you think about it and let me know ok. ... See you at work.

Leave the ball is his court.

I've done enough free compuer stuff and discounted wedding photography to know that once you start giving away your services, its hard to go back.