Finding "Gigs" That Feed Us

The temptation when working from gig-to-gig is to take anything that comes along. If someone offers to pay us (or perhaps doesn't even offer to) to do something, the urge to say "Yes!" without thought of the expenses, time and energy needed can be overwhelming.

But what kind of gig is right for you? There are many ways to peel this onion:

1) What is the payoff?

Payoff can be measured traditionally by looking at the projected Return-on-Investment (ROI) or it be examined in non-traditional ways:

• Will it give you the opportunity to prove yourself with a potential client or employer?


• Will it give you exposure to contacts to whom you wouldn't normally have exposure?


• Will it give you tangible experience that will help you to expand into new territory?

2) Do you share common values?

When taking on a gig, it is helpful to share basic values about business.

You might want to explore if you and the potential partner have similar views on ethics, quality, and conduct. I actually met with a potential business partner once who told me that they wished that a mutual friend's mother would drop dead. Seriously.

3) Will the "rules" work for you?

Will your workload allow for the project? Are you comfortable with the contract or non-disclosure language? Is it a "win-win" for you -- an opportunity that will both enrich you financially and professionally?