What’s the best way to get paid as a freelancer? How do you assess the viability of a new member of your workshop team? Two topics covered by Jame’s video below.

I found the evaluation of a new team member as really interesting. I have found it’s not as simple as just hiring the smartest person. Special forces absolutely requires competency/physical ability – but will also drop candidates for reasons of integrity, perseverance, ability to take personal responsibility, professionalism, and especially ability to operate as a team player. Being a maverick or deceitful, no matter how talented you are, make you a bad team member.

“One of the less smart people – that wasn’t that great – had an attitude that was so good it made the workplace function better. I can’t quite explain it but it was really true.”

He nails it. It’s true on software teams. It’s not always true, but time and again I’ve seen personal dynamics and attitude are MORE important than ability. A rockstar that’s hard to work with or can’t get along with others might as well not be on the team. Either manage them on a project all by themselves or find another teammate that fits well.

Also, when it comes to the difficulty of being a freelance, Mike Monteiro’s “F*ck You, Pay Me” video is a must-watch.