Jessica Hische nails it again.

My take: I’ve been a professional designer for 20 years. I’ve been approached to “help out” with many projects over that time, and agreed to a lot of them.

I’ve never gained measurable exposure.

I’ve never gotten more (ie, paid) work from the “client.”

I’ve almost never received money or merchandise promised to me when the person or company became profitable.

I’ve rarely received proper credit or even thanks.

Friendships have ended when I’ve pressured for any of these things.

I still get calls out of the blue from people who took advantage of me years ago and don’t get the hint when I repeatedly turn down their “free”lance projects. There have been times when I was glad to help out a friend or cause, but I can count those on one hand.

Creative types of all ages and skill levels, take my advice: Just Say No!

(Jessica’s infographic found via fastcodesign.)