What should freelancers discuss before referring work to each other?
Clarify service boundaries, availability and client permission before making introductions. Do not begin by swapping client lists or assume every referral must be accepted and repaid.
Start with these three steps
- State the work each of you can and cannot take.
- Confirm both sides want an introduction and share only necessary information.
- Make any fees or conditions explicit beforehand rather than adding them later.
The distinction that changes your decision
An introduction opens a conversation; it does not guarantee delivery quality or a sale. Clients still need to assess fit, and you should accurately state whether you have seen the other person’s work.
A filled example
A photographer receives a website enquiry. They check the designer’s availability and the client’s interest before introducing them, without attaching unapproved business documents or inventing delivery experience.
What to do with your observation
| Observation | Next action |
|---|---|
| Is it unfair if they do not refer work back? | Not necessarily. Volume and fit need not be equal. Discuss any expectation of a continuing arrangement instead of treating one favour as a debt. |
A worksheet you can use
My service boundary: __; their boundary: __; permission from both sides: __; shareable details: __; terms needing clarification: __.
Is it unfair if they do not refer work back?
Not necessarily. Volume and fit need not be equal. Discuss any expectation of a continuing arrangement instead of treating one favour as a debt.
Evidence and scope
This is an original editorial decision guide. Examples are hypothetical, not testimonials. Participation, another person’s interest and eventual outcomes are separate questions. The source supplies context, not validation of these scripts, exercises or WKND outcomes. No outside expert reviewed or endorsed this guide.
Clark discusses consistent preparation for future opportunities. Dorie Clark — How to Build Systems That Create Future Opportunities (author article)
Sources and further reading
Dorie Clark — How to Build Systems That Create Future Opportunities (author article)
- Considering a career change? Ask about the daily work before choosing a new title
- How to maintain weak ties without making every conversation transactional
- How do you explain your freelance service at a meal without turning it into a pitch?
- How do you share a portfolio after a business conversation without spamming?
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library