I had a great call with someone today – it was a free 1:1 consult and it was exactly what I needed. After we finished, I realized I would have gladly paid for the time, it was incredibly valuable. Obviously it was a lead generation tool right? Offer the free call, show what you know and what you do and then overwhelm me so I have to hire you to do it for me. That’s the point of the “free” call. At the end of the call I said that I could use some help with some of what we talked about and asked about rates and availability. And the hourly rate needed to be at LEAST double. And I told them so. “Well, I’m new and I want to be affordable and…”

Charge what you’re worth.

I scheduled Hank at the dog sitter for next week while I’m out-of-town and noticed the rate increased $5/day. Not a problem, but I did inquire since she hadn’t mentioned it.

Yes! My rate increased. Sorry to change things up, but I’ve been realizing my demand has been increasing.

Excellent, you SHOULD increase your rate when your demand increases. And we are so grateful for her, she could honestly charge us whatever she wants and we’d pay it since we have the world’s most coddled dog…And so I wrote back, “great, glad you’re charging what you’re worth!”

Thanks so much! I’m not sure if I’m worth it, but I know people enjoy having me watch their dogs:)

Oh honey. You’re worth it.

Why do we, as women specifically, do this? When I started my business I charged about half of what I charge now. I did a couple of big price jumps and you know what? One client, who’s contract was up (and was kind of a pain to work with) didn’t renew. And then two more awesome clients signed on and had no problem with my rate.

Charge what you are worth, not what you think the market can afford.

I outsource a lot of things in my life (less now, but still a good chunk), and I couldn’t go without a house keeper (we’ve tried, the shower turns a weird pink in corners…) but if I can bill one hour in the time the housekeeper is here, it’s paid for itself.

It may be time to reevaluate your rate, and if no one flinches at your rate or comments on the “great deal” they’re getting, it’s time.

I am happy to give you that kick in the butt pep talk if you need it!