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"I'm not sure how to equate your post to another one from last week..."
There is nothing to equate...I have not seen that post, nor have I experienced "all the offers of work for hire". This post is in reference to the coders I've contacted on the coder list, not to any request on this forum.
"OTOH, some of us are tied up with a backlog and are turning away some (if not all) requests for new projects until they get prior commitments under control"
That is certainly understandable, but it does not justify ignoring someone and not responding at all to an inquiry for help. A simple response of, "We are not taking new business at this time", would be appropriate.
It's no small task to run a web development business. Given sufficient existing clients, there is always the "problem or emergency du-jour", juggling urgent client requests, answering phones, and eventually getting a bit of sleep or R&R.
This is not unique to a web development business. And it still does not justify not responding, or requiring money just to find out what I need.
"And as for developers asking for a deposit prior to providing services ..."
I never indicated that I have a problem with paying a deposit prior to providing services, or that retainer is not appropriate, and I certainly understand the need to assure payment for work done. I, myself, require a retainer from new clients.
However, I don't charge them just to talk to me to see if I can meet their needs. I spend some time up front finding out what their needs are, then decide if I can, or want, to work with them. During this initial discussion I determine the scope of work, and after that, give them a quote. If we both decide to move forward, that is when I require a retainer before I start work. I also provide an agreement and a proposal that outlines the scope of work.
I expect the same from a coder. I don't think it fair to ask for money just to talk to me. Why would I want to pay anyone cash just to talk to them to find out if they are qualified to help with what I need done, or pay them just to tell me if they can, or cannot, help me?
I appreciate your response to my post. I think it important we talk on the phone to see if we would be able to work together. Sometimes, postings come across different than intended. Since trust is important to a successful working relationship in service businesses, talking directly with each other can alleviate any concerns or misunderstandings...and I do believe you misunderstood my post since your reply sounded defensive to me. On the other hand, I may be the one who misunderstood your intent in your post as being defensive.
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