Always Charge What Your Time Is Worth

For many new small business owners, one of the hardest things to figure out is pricing. This is especially true for service-based businesses that charge by the hour. I know I’ve been kept up at night after sending off a proposal wondering whether I charged too little or too much. I say no more of this.

I declare 2010 the year to stop second-guessing your pricing plan.

Before taking my declaration and running with it, make sure you’ve first covered off the basics – industry research, deciding on your target market and a competitive analysis. Then ensure you’ve taken your background into consideration as well. That MBA, 10 years of corporate experience in your field or an extensive past clients list may give you the right to charge more than your peers. Be comfortable with that.

When it’s time to present an estimate to your potential client, do so with confidence. Whatever you do, don’t open the conversation with, “Well, if this is too much, perhaps we can work something out.” Your time is too valuable. If you are open to negotiating because you really want to work with the client or need to build your portfolio, go in knowing the lowest possible price you’re willing to take and be prepared to walk away. I remember being excited to speak to a potential client about writing grants for his non-profit organization. I presented my pricing estimate. He balked. I clearly explained how I arrived at that price, and he made a counteroffer of $100/grant. For those not familiar with the non-profit industry, some grant proposals can require over 20 pages of program descriptions and documentation. When I explained this to the potential client, his response was, “But don’t you need the money?” No! Ok, yes, I needed the money, but my time was worth more than the $5/hour or less he was willing to pay. I walked away and didn’t look back. You should be prepared to do the same.

Remember if you don’t value your time, who will?

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About Dequiana Jackson

Dequiana Jackson, Founder of Inspired Marketing, Inc., helps overachieving women entrepreneurs conquer limiting beliefs and create marketing plans that grow their businesses. This includes one-on-one marketing plan development, digital product creation, web design and content marketing. Dequiana is the author of Know Your Business: How to Attract Ideal Clients & Sell More and runs the award-winning blog, Entrepreneur-Resources.net.

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4 comments

  1. This was very valuable to me at this time as I work on pricing for my clients. I was basing my rates on other people’s opinions about the economic current state. I know that my services and knowledge are worth way more than I was going to charge. I was told to change my rates by two people who I know care about my professional and financial success on the same day. I got the hint. Now, I’m back to the drawing board.

  2. Hi Marcie! I’m glad the article helped. Many times, small business owners are so concerned about landing the next client that we underprice our products and services. If what we offer is worth more, then we need to charge me.

    Take a look at your target market and what it is willing to pay. Then price accordingly.

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