scc2013 - what's the true cost of free?

What’s the true cost of free?Savita Custead Debbie Syrop

Jamie Gallagher

What’s the true cost of free?Debbie Syrop

www.sciencemadesimple.co.uk

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?o High drop out rateo Lack of support from

schoolo Disruptive audienceso Low perceived value

SOME SUGGESTIONS

o Nominal chargingo Payment in kind e.g. feedbacko Special offers or discountso Build closer relationships

What’s the true cost of free?Jamie Gallagher

@jamiebgall

Experience Vs ExploitationThe path to paid communication

How do free events impact on presenters and facilitators involved?

How does voluntary working effect full time communicators?

Who am I?

My experience

Gaining Experience

• Build skills• CV experience• Networking• Flexible hours• Choice of events• Flexibility

• Little support• Hard work• Net loss of money• Career development?• Lack of respect• Two tiers

The Good The Bad

Fighting your corner

• Compete against free workers

• When do you have “enough” experience

• The guilt trip

• Volunteers- the easy route

• Lack of respect to the industry?

• The friend’s wedding

What’s the true cost of free?Savita Custead Debbie Syrop Jamie Gallagher