Tough economy may not be so bad for the one-man shop

The past week has proven quite eventful for the U.S. economy and probably the blood pressures of many business owners, as well. But while many look on at a bleak short-term future, this change in financial strength may bode well for the freelancers of America.

In most scenarios, the one-man shops generally struggle to gain their footing among the established boutique shops or larger agencies. Their bids may get overlooked by companies in need of full campaigns, websites, or even one-off projects.

But I come bringing hope! Those of us working from our homes don't have the clout of the larger companies, but there is one thing we DO have going for us: overhead. Or should I say...the lack thereof.

The average hourly design rate in America for advertising agencies and design studios reaches over $100 per hour. Projects are handled by a team of professionals ranging from creative directors, to copywriters, to account executives. Salaries, utilities, business loans and office rentals raise the bar for what HAS to be made.

But in a time when cost is getting cut and pennies being pinched in every category, it is the freelancer that may benefit from this financial plunge. Advertisers will need to find alternative solutions market their products ans services. And who will be there to save the day? Us. For example, U D+M's hourly design rate is at least 30% lower than our larger competitors. The work may not be spread over a team of employees on salary, but you will still receive the same finished product at a fraction of the price. 

So, fear not, fellow freelancers. The free market will ALWAYS need to market. It may just be that it has to come to us instead of the 'major leagues'. And as the market rebuilds, we will grow with it, catapulting us into the next level.