With my latest site redesign for the Holidays, I posted a page that may surprise other freelancers: Pricing. You may notice on many web designer portfolios online what an uncommon trend posting pricing publicly can be. I’ve already had my online colleagues comment, question, and praise my decision to do this.
I’m proud to have my freelance prices shown online, and you should be proud of your pricing as well. Here’s why.
You’re Up-front And Honest About Your Costs
When potential clients see your freelance pricing, they will see that you’re not hiding how you charge them for your time. With my pricing, the first two options are targeted at clients who need a quick job done, charged either by the hour or by the day. Those who want a quick job done know right away what I’m asking for and can decide if my services are worth it. This eliminates clients sending me messages asking me to do a quick turnaround on a logo or site for a cheap price.
However, I’ve pushed the third option, “Ask For A Quote,” as the preferred option for those who want more done for less. If a client is flexible on the timeframe and wants quality work done at a slower pace, I’ll reduce my fees and quote more competitively and fairly for the time leverage. Too many clients are rushed by deadlines, which hinders research, creativity, and the overall product. Therefore, I cater to those who are more relaxed about getting a job done, but still want a great product for my time. Want to rush me? See my first two options.
This shows my way of handling showing my freelancing costs. You should be comfortable about being honest and open with your pricing. This builds trust with your potential clients, and that trust will bring them back for future jobs.
You Are Charging For Your Time
These things take time, and you need to charge accordingly. Remember: You’re working for yourself. Therefore, you can set your own rates. Do you want to work hourly, project based, or give the option for both? How much does it cost you to do freelance jobs? What prices are fair to you? Set them and convey those numbers to your clients.
You Are A Professional, So Show It
If you want to be taken seriously as a professional freelancer, let your potential clients know you mean business. You are providing a service to them and in the end they are receiving a product from your labor. You decide how the work is valued to you, and don’t be afraid to let them know it. If they don’t like it, then they simply weren’t worth your time. It may sound harsh, but think about it this way: If they didn’t want to pay your costs, the client probably would have given more trouble than its worth if you took on the job. Never put yourself in that position. Some clients will take every opportunity to take advantage of you if you let them. Don’t give them any rope to hang you.
Remember what The Joker said in The Dark Knight: “If you’re good at something, never do it for free.”
What do you think about this? Would you put your prices on your site for everyone to see, or would you keep them to yourself? I’d like to know your thoughts in the comments!
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