Hey all…for a few years now, I’ve helped a friend (not a close friend, more of an acquaintances I suppose) out with an annual comic con.
I never really minded all that much & I’m honesty the type who will help someone out without asking a whole lot in return.
The thing is, the con has evolved a bit, grown, and the “friend” has sort of become increasingly demanding and not really all that rewarding or appreciative in terms of what he offers in return.
Certainly I could simply say no or because bit more assertive but I really do try to just be a nice guy and often end up getting taking advantage because of it. He pushed a bit too much today & the old mean Marine, loose cannon nearly came out. Didn’t like the feeling.
Anyway…if you helped a guy out at a con:
Thursday night set up (3 hours)
Friday 10-8
Sat 10-8
Sun 11-8 teardown & haul, unloading
Also…this con actually has free admission so getting in or a vendor pass is zero benefit here.
What would you expect?? Roughly?
I know what I’ve accepted in the past… curious as to your thoughts?
He also loves to do the whole value in trade or cash thing…with trade being a bit more of course…fellow loves his cash.
But seriously though. That’s a lot to ask. Do you set up at the con as well or just help him set up? Or are you helping him set up everyone’s tables and chairs and stuff? Basically you are giving up your entire weekend.
32 hours is most of the way to full work week, I would work around that dollar amount until you get somewhere you feel comfortable in the “nice” guy territory but haven’t moved into the “taken advantage of” territory. I hope he at least pays for meals.
I don’t set up anymore. I only help him set up and then essentially “man” his booth with him all weekend. He has a very large booth. It isn’t his show, he’s just one of many vendors.
He does pay for food & nice dinner at the end.
At this point, it has become a “I should just set up myself” because of putting in all the time, effort, work…but really getting minimal return… outside of trying to tell myself " yeah…but you’re being a good guy and a friend and that’s what friends do".
Minimum wage in many states would put those hours at about $500. I’d be more put off by a pushy, unappreciative attitude. Would this guy do the same for you if the roles were reversed?
Unlikely…and yet another reason I’m irritated.
I would never go back on my word of helping at this point, but… he’s done just about everything possible to “not” make me want to lend him a hand going forward.
I was thinking in terms of minimum wage as well. He could hire someone off the street…minimum wage is $7.25 to $17.50. So you’re looking at $250-$550 depending on the state.
$300 plus a dinner seems reasonable. But I don’t know how much of that 10-8 you’re actually working, versus rummaging around the convention for books.
If anyone were to complain about $300 for that much of your time, they need to feel the pain of not having you there to truly appreciate your help and friendship.
Maybe he’s trying to push away? I would just lean into the thought that he doesn’t want you involved anymore and is driving you away. I’d tell I’m “I’m outtie 5000”.
Been a rough couple of months.