Is it best to use “we” or “I” when you talk about your freelance business? Some people think that it is dishonest to use “we” if your business is only “you.” Others say that using “we” makes a business look bigger, which can convince potential clients to take you more seriously. Whichever you decide on, be honest with your clients if they ask.
For my current business, which is named with my name, I use “I” both on my website and when I talk about my business to other people. I rarely hire subcontractors or work with a partner on a project, but when I do I refer to “we” or to “my team.” I don’t feel the need to make my business look any bigger than it is. As a matter of fact, some of my clients hire me specifically because I am my business: they are assured that I am personally working on all their projects (or that I’ll let them know if a subcontractor will be involved).
I am considering rebranding my business with a name that is not personal. The idea of the new business is that it will be a true “we”. I’ll partner with other freelancers so that the business can pursue projects that require more than just my expertise. I plan to be the principal of the business and have all work go through me so that I can act as project manager, client contact, and quality control.
How do you refer to your business? Has a client ever questioned if you are a “we” or an “I”?
* Punctuation note: In the US, the standard is to have all punctuation inside of quotes. I just can’t stand to put the question mark inside the quotes in the headline and last paragraph, so I didn’t. Please don’t send the grammar police.