Own Your Worth
By: Amanda Marksmeier
For military spouses who work in creative fields, it seems like the words “portable,” “flexible,” and “enjoyable” should go together. But the joy of creative work can quickly turn sour when it comes to setting a price for your labor.
When you’re getting started in a creative field, you know that you may have to offer your services for free (or at a highly discounted rate) to build a portfolio. But after you’ve had a few successful projects, it can be daunting to think about setting (or raising) your rates, especially if it will mean renegotiating with existing clients. To lessen the anxiety of this process, consider:
What are your basic needs?
A base rate isn’t worth having if it doesn’t factor in the costs of your business, taxes that you must pay, your realistic yearly billable hours, and the total salary you need to make this job worthwhile.
What type of project is it?
Are you creating a website or designing a logo? Writing an article or an entire manual?
Photographing a wedding or a portrait? When it comes to setting your price, you can have a scaled list rather than a flat hourly rate. The type of project will dictate the amount of time, energy, and effort you must give.
Who is your client?
Are they a small, local business owner, a mid-size firm, or a large corporation? While a small business may have fewer resources, they may also give you more creative space. With each job, you must determine a balance between your interest in the project and an obligation to your finances.
What is your client's budget?
Not sure, just ask! Your client already has an idea of how much they're willing to pay. By
Who is your client?
Are they a small, local business owner, a mid-size firm, or a large corporation? While a small business may have fewer resources, they may also give you more creative space. With each job, you must determine a balance between your interest in the project and an obligation to your finances.
What kind of budget does your client have?
Not sure, just ask! Your client already has an idea of how much they’re willing to pay. By asking their price range, you’re better equipped to leverage the price you want rather than undervaluing yourself.