How do I base pay for work done by students?

chickieshrimp

I`ve found a very talented artist to do some basic artwork for my business - simple advertising brochure, poster, etc.    He just happened to be the best artist who replied to my ad, I wasn`t necessarily looking for the `cheapest` option.  But he has no actual work expereince or background,  his entire portfolio consists of school assignments and random sketches he`s done for his own amusement.  I want to offer him fair payment for his work and talent, but I`m torn between paying him as an un-experienced student verses paying him for work on a professional project.  Advice??

Ronda

Sometimes students are willing to work as interns in order to get experience and build their resume. If their school has an appropriate program, they can also receive school credit as an intern. However, if the student is only interested in a paid position, I would look at paying him as an entry level graphic artist.

MattThomas

Agreed with Ronda. He may have done an amazing job, but any entry level staff member who did an equally amazing job would still get entry level pay.
However, I am a big proponent in paying a little over the going rate for any position, including entry level positions, just to ensure staff members are demotivated by feeling as if they are underpaid.

nevadascul

Just because he is a student, does not mean he is not looking for a real job.  Pay him at least prevailing wage.

MattTurpin

Pay him for the value of his contribution. It doesn`t matter if a "professional" does your project, so long as you`re happy with the results. I would be willing to wager that you`ll get more heart and soul poured into this project by having an up and coming student do it than you would from any pro. That has to be worth something. You`re not just a project number with this artist. If he does an amazing job on your project, don`t let his lack of credentials stop you from paying him what you would for anyone else.

chickieshrimp

Very good replies and advice, thanks to all.  
 
Of course anyone would find it unethical to offer two $5 for one $20, good analogy.  But would you pay $60 to a `professional landscaper` (a guy in a pickup truck with a riding mower) to  mow your lawn; or $20 to the kid down the street for the same job?

stoavio

I started accepting freelance web and graphic design jobs when I was 13 and continued to do so for at least another 7 years. One thing I quickly learned was what my time and talent was worth versus what people were willing to pay. When I was younger, that disparity was much bigger but the older you get the more that gap starts to close. Just because he`s young doesn`t justify a wage that`s less than what you would pay a 35 year old who produces similar results. Don`t discriminate based on his age, if you`re confident in his abilities and you like his work pay him what you think is fair. 

stoavio

It seems I echoed the sentiments of previous posters, my apologies! I just read the first post and replied.