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Topic: when potential client asks for a rate reduction
| Author | Message |
| nellie bly | Posted – 1/1/2008 11:14:28 PM | show profile this is a red flag that they're going to be a pain to work with and I'll regret it if I take this freelance job. Or am I being too hasty? Has anyone had the opposite experience and turned it around? I have a lunch meeting coming up with the potential client, who is a friend's relative. If I could gracefully cancel the meeting I probably would. The job entails writing a book proposal (book is already written) and grant proposal letter. When I quoted a $40-$50 hourly rate, the person seemed shocked at 10 hours worth of work coming to $400-$500. I believe my rate is fair. Also, it's really not worth it to me to get up to speed on a project unless I'm going to earn at least $1,500-$2,000. I'll have to explain this, too. Now that I've written this, I realize I prefer working for a publishing co or other established business rather than an individual who is personally paying the bill. Would like to hear other opinions- pro and con. |
| dribbledrive1 | Posted – 1/2/2008 2:08:36 AM | show profile The question isn't whether your rate is "fair" or "unfair." The question is whether the client can afford you. In this case, it's apparent he can't, so I wouldn't waste time meeting with him, unless you simply view this lunch meeting as a favor for your friend. |
| foodlit | Posted – 1/2/2008 10:42:37 AM | show profile I wouldn't be too hasty. Did they actually ask for a reduction, or just seem surprised at the rate? Even if they did ask for a reduction, that is not uncommon, and sort of smart actually for negotiating, as it never hurts to ask. You don't have to agree. Just stand firm and then if they agree, great. If not, then that's fine too. I have new clients ask me to cut my fee all the time, and it's often a way for them to test the waters because you'd be amazed how many people will simply say yes, because they want the business. I don't. I just say, "I'm sorry, but I can't do that. My rate is x. If you can get approval for that, then I'd love to work with you." I've found that to be very successful, because if they do decide to go forward, then you know they are serious about getting the job done. Good luck, Pam |
| Metro Writer | Posted – 1/2/2008 10:22:20 PM | show profile Some clients are pains, but others just don't understand what is involved in what you do, so you should explain it. Also, everything is negotiable, but come to an agreement and then put it in writing. That said, you're charging too little. Lucy Hedrick (www.lucyhedrick.com) charges a lot more. A lot more. You should also let the client know that the proposal should have come before the book was written. Unless it's going to be self-published, the final project may not be what he or she had in mind. BTW, if this person -- or anyone else -- is interested in self-publishing, keep checking www.ctpressclub.com. They're going to run a seminar with four speakers who are successful self-published authors. |
