“What to do When…?” Hiring Help, Coworker Drama, Resolving Disputes with Fellow Artists

Let’s dive into one of the trickiest parts of being a working artist—when hiring help or teaming up with another creative doesn’t go quite as planned.

Recently I had back-to-back coaching calls asking me questions that centered around the complications that arise when artists work together. They asked, “Have you ever had drama with coworker artists?” I laughed because oh boy have I! I’ve hired friends to work with me that didn’t work out. I’ve under and overpaid artists. I’ve experienced expectations not being met and the complications that came with it. I’ve worked with people who are great communicators and others who held issues in and let it build up to the point of exploding on a job site. I feel like I am the perfect person to talk about this subject having been on all ends of this issue. 

What do you do when…?

• Another artist thinks they need to be paid more than you’re offering.
• An artist you’re counting on cancels the day before.
• The artist you hired paints slow and won’t speed up.
• The artist makes a small/big mistake on the job.
• Your artist friend suddenly treats you like competition.
• A fellow artist copies your mural design or idea.
• Your helper posts the mural on their page and tags you weirdly (or doesn’t tag you at all).

Tips:

• Always over-communicate and remind them. Explain why.
• Set expectations in writing, even if it’s just a text.
• Hire quick, fire fast — 1, 2 strike, you’re out.
• Day 1: trial day