Should I Accept Exposure Instead of Payment

A Factsheet from

“We can’t pay you but we’ll give you great exposure…”

It might be an influencer, a magazine, or a big brand asking for your product or time “in return for visibility.” At first, it feels flattering. Is it worth it?

Exposure doesn’t pay the bills
You can’t use it to pay your rent, people and bills. If a company values what you do, they should value it enough to pay.

Some collaborations can work
Sometimes a well-placed feature, trade, or giveaway can drive traffic or lead to future paid work. But that’s rare and it needs to be on your terms.

Ask:

• Who’s their audience?
• Will they promote you with a tag or link?
• Are you guaranteed coverage?
• Is this offer going to build your business or just theirs?

Protect your time
How long will this unpaid job take you? Could you use that time to serve a paying customer or work on your marketing?

Track your time. It’s your most precious asset.

Set a policy
You don’t have to say yes, or no, every time. Create a simple checklist or rule. For example:

“I only collaborate unpaid if it’s a charity I support or a direct barter with equal value”.

That saves emotional bandwidth and stops guilt-trips.

Say no politely

“Thanks for thinking of me. I can’t take on unpaid work at the moment, but I’d be happy to send over my rates and availability”.

It’s professional, clear, and keeps the door open.

✅ Read more: Know your worth – Creative UK

Ask yourself
Would they ask a plumber to work for exposure? A hairdresser? A caterer?

If the answer is no, then why are they asking you?

Register at http://www.business111.com for more factsheets By Liz Barclay