Your time is worth money

The following column was originally published in 2013.

Dear Annie: I make my living by helping people with computer issues, setting up, getting rid of malware, etc. I love helping clients and truly enjoy my profession. I do an excellent job for my customers and am completely devoted to customer satisfaction.

My problem lies with friends, neighbours, etc., who take advantage of my knowledge and expertise. It usually starts with a phone call or an email saying, “I just have a quick question.” These questions are not usually so quick, involving at least a half-hour and often many hours on the phone. When the problem is solved, they say “thanks” and hang up. Meanwhile, I have spent hours of my time that should have been billable.

I am looking for a professional but pleasant way to handle those who don’t offer to pay me. Should I say something upfront? I don’t mind helping when it actually is a quick question: under 10 minutes. I do it all the time and am happy to do so. But the rest of this is beginning to be a financial drain, and I really need your help. Always Willing To Help

Dear Willing: You need to let people know the situation at the time they ask. Reply, “I’m happy to help, but it is only fair to tell you that I can give you 10 minutes for free, and after that, my time will have to be billed.” If you want to offer friends and family a special discount of some kind, say so. Some people will be upset regardless, but that cannot be helped. Those who are most likely to take advantage are the same ones who take umbrage when you don’t acquiesce. Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column.