Been checking out industry benchmarks recently and it’s clear pricing is a puzzle when you’re working solo.
I find it challenging to balance competitive rates with fair compensation. The process feels reflective, like weighing risks against rewards.
I keep it simple. Start with industry rates, then adjust based on my experience and the job.
I track my costs and past project profits in a spreadsheet. This helps me price new work accurately.
If a client wants cheap, I explain why I’m worth more. Sometimes you gotta walk away from lowball offers. It’s just business.
Pricing’s a headache. I just look at what others charge and wing it. Sometimes I hit the mark, sometimes I don’t. It’s part of the gig, I guess.
Pricing’s a tricky beast. I’ve tried a few things that seem to work:
Look at industry rates, but don’t copy them blindly.
Keep a list of your past jobs. Note down:
- What you charged
- How long it took
- If you made money
This helps price new stuff better.
Don’t forget to factor in your costs:
- Software
- Equipment
- Taxes
- Insurance
These eat into your profits if you’re not careful.
Talk to other contractors. Most are cool with sharing what they charge.
Be ready to explain your value to clients. Some just want cheap, but others get that quality costs more.
Don’t be afraid to say no to low offers. It’s scary, but it saves headaches later.
Adjust your rates as you get better. Your skills are worth more over time.
Remember, pricing is personal. What works for others might not work for you. Keep tweaking until you find your sweet spot.
Look, pricing isn’t rocket science. You need to know your costs, your market, and what you’re worth. Start with industry rates, sure, but adjust based on your experience and the job’s complexity. Don’t lowball yourself just to get work. Set a rate that covers your bills and leaves some profit. If clients balk, explain why you’re worth it. Raise your rates gradually as you gain more skills. And always get it in writing before you start. That’s how you avoid headaches down the road.
I eyeball prices and set what feels right.
I’ve been in this game for a while now, and here’s what’s worked for me:
Start with the industry benchmarks, but don’t treat them as gospel. They’re a good starting point.
I keep a spreadsheet of my past projects. It shows how long each took, what I charged, and if I made money or lost my shirt. This helps me price new jobs.
I also factor in my costs - software, equipment, taxes, health insurance. These add up fast when you’re solo.
Don’t be afraid to ask other contractors what they charge. Most are happy to share.
Remember, some clients will always want the cheapest option. But many value quality and reliability. Price yourself for those clients.
Lastly, be ready to walk away from lowball offers. It’s scary, but it’s saved me from problem clients more than once.