>>That is basically what I’m saying…. from the employer’s point of view that is.
>>They can justify the use ‘n’ refuse corporate attitude with the economy as it is.
>>
>The more annoying / sad aspect is that these ridiculous rates (if the positions are filled and they appear often enough) will drive down rates for the rest of us.
>
This can be a positive. At least it's not subject to HR policies. You know you're services are more valuable than 11USD. Go talk to the prospect about the project. Listen to the prospect. He has probably been burned. He wants to see a glint of honesty, ethics and confidence. When he sees that he will capitulate. Both of you want the same thing: Value. Convince him he'll get 10 hours of 11 per in one hour from you.

If you can summarize the project and present a rough plan at the end of your first meeting - you can name your price if the time is in the budget!

But it also would be a great first project an up and comming independent contractor. Come to think of it, I had such a project (my first real one) work order, inventory, job costing (from scratch!). I got 1200USD in 6 months. My only gig for that time. An eye opener, the sleeper awakened. After that - they paid with a smile in their heart at professional rates.