April 8, 2009 - How to Survive as a Freelancer

11:30 am to 1:30 pm
The Old Spaghetti Factory in Riverside

It was literally standing room only at this popular event. We had about 40 people register online and another 10-15 people showed up at the door. Who knew freelancing was so popular?

We began the luncheon with an informal poll and discovered the group was comprised of designers, photographers, copywriters, interactive, and services companies like printers. The group consisted of AAF-IE members, CICAMA members, students from Westwood College and the Art Institute, and a bunch of folks from the general public. <.p>

This event featured 3 awesome panelists:

1. Hank Blank, principal of Hank Blank Inc.
2. Peter Quill, Chief Strategy Officer of Motor Creative Marketing
3. Theresa Mesa, president of Mesa Design House

We had prepared a bunch of questions for our panelists on the topics of networking and business development, how to work with agencies and the business side of freelancing such as taxes and record keeping. After we asked our panelists an initial set of questions, questions were then fielded from the audience.

For the next hour, we learned a lot. Hank Blank shared his insights on the importance of having your own business cards, creating your own website, and the value of social media and networking accounts such as LinkedIn - even as a student.

Theresa talked about creating a DBA, opening a business checking account, using Quickbooks and something called the Board of Equalization. Apparently the Board of Equalization is worse than the IRS - who knew?

Finally, Peter shared his experience working with freelancers. He talked about approaching agencies for that first freelance gig. Peter talked hourly vs. day rates vs. project rates. He discussed timelines, spelling and printing.

Peter Quills of Motor Creative and Hank Blank of Hank Blank Inc

The luncheon concluded with a drawings with a bunch of drawings. AAF-IE member Janine Perry of Perry Design & Advertising provide 2 sets of tickets to see The Producers. Our panelist Hank Blank gave 3 copies of his CD "Networking: Connecting the Dots". The AAF-IE Chapter offered a $25 gift certificate to Barnes and Noble and Starbucks! Everyone had a great time.

Thank you again to Theresa, Hank and Peter for your time!

If you missed this great luncheon, register now so you don't miss another.

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