That is fucking lame. Did you quit a fulltime job to do the “trial”. Was this in California? You can try and report them for break code violations. Out them and use their and workers names. Don’t promote this bad behavior and let them do this to other. This is why we need a graphic artist union. The rockstar freelancer myth needs to end. We need to be using AI and unions to protect ourselves from these predators.

“Too chill” as a reason for firing you for completing 40+ designs is just a made-up reason on their end to exploit you. I’m sorry that happened to you and hope you find some place better with decent people.

Sounds like Lisa Frank!

Shady and ridiculous. Contract trials are nonsense, you dodged a bullet. Clearly not people you wanna work for. Consult an employment lawyer, just in case. Bring receipts.

It’s a red flag when they offer salary. They did you a favor by not bringing you on fulltime. Good for you holding true to your work process. I typically stay away from salary contracts. Graphic design, like other trades, is associated with a tasks where output is directly linked to time worked. The creative process isn’t linear. The changing scopes, revisions, fluctuating workloads, and unpredictable timelines make it hard to set a salary. Billing hourly gives both parties flexibility.

Try what folk do in the film industry do. Set up an Intellectual Property LLC- I like New Mexico to and work as an employee of your LLC with a signed contract. Get a box fee if you have your own tools. The LLC is paid full rate, no deductions. Your company pays you. If more than one in your company you can get group rate insurance. Buy and hold solid company stocks. All expenses related to your work are business expenses and reduce your taxable income. See an attorney.