I’ve been charging the same rates for two years now. My skills have improved, but I’m hesitant to raise prices. How do you know when it’s the right moment?
I worry about losing long-term clients, but I also feel like I’m undervaluing my work. It’s a tricky balance to strike.
Look, after two years you’re definitely due for a raise. Your costs have gone up and you’ve gotten better at the job. That’s worth more.
For existing clients, give them a heads up. Tell 'em your rates are going up next month, but they’re getting a special price for being loyal. Most will understand.
If someone walks over a fair increase, they weren’t a great client anyway. There’s always more work out there if you’re good.
Just be upfront about the change and why. Maybe throw in a small loyalty discount for the regulars to keep things smooth. But don’t sell yourself short. Good work is worth good money.
Rates are a pain. I usually just wing it. Maybe toss in a small bump if you’re feeling it. Long as the work’s good, most folks won’t make a fuss.
Raising rates is always nerve-wracking. But after two years, it’s definitely time to reassess. Here’s my approach:
For existing clients, I’d have a chat about your improved skills and increased value. Most understand if you explain it well.
Remember, good clients pay for quality. If someone bolts over a reasonable increase, they probably weren’t ideal anyway.
Don’t sell yourself short. Skilled freelancers are worth their weight in gold.
Eh rates are tricky. I just bump em when jobs get harder.
I’ve been in your shoes, Jess. Two years is a long time to keep the same rates. Here’s what worked for me:
I looked at my costs. Everything from software to coffee got more expensive. That alone justified a bump.
Then I made a list of new skills I’d picked up. Turned out I was way more valuable than when I started.
For existing clients, I gave them a heads up. ‘Hey, my rates are going up next month. You’re getting a special rate as a loyal customer.’
Most were cool with it. A couple grumbled but stayed. One left, but I replaced them with a better-paying gig.
Don’t sweat it too much. If you’re good at what you do, clients will pay. And if they don’t, others will.
Just be clear about the increase and why. Maybe offer a small loyalty discount to soften the blow for regulars.
I raise rates when my schedule fills up. If I’m turning down work, it’s time for a bump.
For regulars, I give a heads up and explain why. Most understand if you’re fair about it.
If someone balks, I’d rather have room for clients who value my work. Focus on delivering quality and the right clients will stick around.