Originally Posted by Dave Muscato  Your mileage is deductible as a business expense (the amount includes wear 'n tear on your car), as are your meals, batteries, and strings, considering this is your job now.
For what it's worth, for gigs seriously outside town (more than a half-hour drive or so), I charge 50 cents per mile, which includes gas (but only for the drive there, though), on top of my usual fee.
No way I'd do this gig for under $300 if I'm driving, considering you're not in the band (I'm presuming you don't get a cut of merch sales), and as a long-term promotional tool for the band, doing or not doing this gig won't benefit you directly except the the $ you charge for your time.
Unless you need this gig as a portfolio-builder and are willing to take a discount, I'd turn it down. If you do take a discount, make sure they understand that this is a one-time thing, as a portfolio-builder, and they should not expect the same discount next time.
In these situations (like when I'm playing a fundraiser that I personally want to support, but isn't a 501(c)3 that can give me a receipt for a tax deduction), here's what I do: Send an invoice showing the discount. For example, I might put the date & description on the invoice with a price of, say, $300, plus a mileage charge for 350 miles ($175), plus 5 meals for $50, for a subtotal charge of $525. Then, put a line that says, "xx% Portfolio-Builder Discount," and then a total charge of whatever you're willing to do it for. That way, it will be clear that they shouldn't expect this type of price schedule regularly.
Either way, talk to them and tell them what your position is. Make it clear that this is your job, and you like playing with them and want to keep playing with them, but you can't afford to work for $1.20/hour ($25 for a 30 hour commitment), and you hope they understand. Tell them that $xxx.00 is what you consider a fair figure, and you're willing to give them a one-time professional discount because you are still building your résumé. If they're not willing to work with you even after a friendly, professional chat, you were just getting taken for a ride anyway, so it's no loss.
It is tempting to work for less or free when you're starting out, but don't do it. It is very hard/impossible to get paid again, once word gets out that you'll work for free (or close enough) if push comes to shove. Stand up for yourself, but do it sympathetically and kindly, and you're golden.
Good luck! |
But I was reading the Gig Advice thread and I read this post:
