Contributors set their own rate per piece on the apply form. We work within whatever you’ve set. But the rate you choose materially affects how much work you’ll get, and from which sites. Here’s how it actually plays out.
Your number, our budget
Each network site has a per-piece budget that the editorial lead works to. When they need a piece, they look at the contributor pool and pick someone whose sector covers it, whose format matches and whose rate fits the budget.
If your rate is below the brief budget: you’re a strong candidate. If it’s at the budget: still in the running. If it’s above: you won’t get the brief unless the editor specifically wants you over a cheaper option.
The trade-off you’re making
Higher rate = fewer briefs, but each brief pays more. Lower rate = more volume at thinner margins. Neither is wrong, but be deliberate.
The mistake we see most often: contributors set their rate too low because they think it’ll get them more work, then resent the volume when the briefs land.
What we’ll do if your rate doesn’t fit a specific brief
Two options. Sometimes we’ll come back with the brief and a counter-rate (“we have a £150 budget for this, would you take it?”) and you choose. Other times we just won’t send the brief, and you’d never know.
If you find yourself approved but not getting commissions, your rate is probably the reason. Drop into your account and try a different number.
Renegotiating
You can change your rate any time via your account. The new rate applies to all new briefs from the moment you save. Existing commissions stay at whatever was agreed in the brief email.
Realistic rate increases of 10-20% on the back of a few successful commissions are normal. Rate increases of 100% rarely fly.
Specialism vs generalism, on rates
A football writer who’d take any code at £100 will get less work than a horse racing specialist at £200, because the racing specialist is a rarer match. Specialism lets you charge more for less volume. Worth knowing when you set your number.
Apply here if you haven’t already.