Should you do free work to build a portfolio?

Should you do free work to build a portfolio?

Author: Jason Resnick May 11, 2018 Duration: 7:27
As a freelancer for the past 15 years, I want to first say that my stance on spec work or work that you do for someone else without getting compensated is something I’m not an advocate for. That doesn’t mean that I don’t see the value or understand why some folks do it. It just means that I would rather put sweat equity into my own business and get a monetary payment for the time and effort I put into someone else’s business.

Jason Resnick runs a web development and design business, and he’s heard all the questions that keep independent creators up at night. Twice a week, he opens up the inbox for Ask Rezzz, turning those real-world frustrations into practical, actionable advice. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a direct line to someone who's navigated the same tricky terrain. You'll hear Jason tackle the messy, everyday problems-like dealing with a perpetually late client, figuring out how to build a stable stream of recurring revenue, or shifting your practice to attract clients who truly value your work. The tone is straightforward and conversational, focusing on sustainable strategies over quick fixes. If you're building a creative business and find yourself feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this podcast offers a regular dose of clarity from someone who gets it. Each episode feels like a focused coaching session, designed to help you move past the hurdles and grow a business that respects your time and expertise.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Ask Rezzz
Podcast Episodes
A131 - Should I put pricing on my website? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:09
Are you a freelancer and struggled with putting prices on your website? In this episode, you are going to learn why it's important to address pricing and ways to do it without putting your actual prices up there.
A127 - How would you write a cold outreach email? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:27
Do you ever wake up in the morning and say “I can’t wait get today rolling so that I can have people completely ignore me?” Today we are going to talk about the 6 steps for cold emails you can use for your freelance busi…
A126 - What is your mantra or personal manifesto? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 6:29
Do you have a mantra, a manifesto? Is it something we need? I don’t know, but I’m going to share with you mine. As a business owner or freelancer we hear that people have these personal manifestos and mantras that they l…
A125 - How often should I write a blog post? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 4:46
I’ve got the answer to your followup from the last episode. Be consistent…it’s what I tell my clients, and my son. Once you start writing, it's easy to become extremely ambitious. Especially as a freelancer and business…