Brian Hoff: “This might sound familiar to some most of you: I received an email from a potential client inquiring a new website. After a few emails back and forth, the talk of money came into the equation, only to have the client question why my rates where so high as “they too were freelancers or small businesses.” They also asked if I’d consider slashing my rate by two-thirds. How about this one: I received emails looking for a $1,000 website because large firms I’ve contacted charge in the six-figures.”
I’ve heard from indie designers and developers that tell this same story. Because they’re small people believe they’ll cut a deal. It’s hard to make a living cutting deals to every Tom, Dick, and Harry on the block. You have to learn how to say one little word, no. I’m sure it’s tough to do, but you have to do it for the sake of your business, otherwise you’ll get buried in work you don’t want, and when something good comes along you’ll either have to pass on it or you’ll kill yourself trying to get it done.
Pick your battles. Easy to say, hard to practice.
Hi Rob,
I’m right there with you. When someone asks me to rid their computer of a virus or spyware/malware (yes, Windows computers ) I let them know up front it will take a minimum of 4 hours and $200 and it could go up from there.. My rates may be cheaper than others in the Visalia area, but I don’t compromise on MY rates. I’m sure I’ll eventually raise them, but my current rates for my after hours computer business give me decent “income” vs. “time away from family” ratio.
Love your new site, Rob. Very clean