What Are Your Services Worth?
I love this video. Watch it if you have clients who pay you.
While working in the consulting business, what I sell is intangible. Vendor relationships, knowledge of where to get a great cake/flowers/deejay, discounts my clients receive because of said relationships, and event knowledge I have because I work in the industry are all pros to hiring me to plan your wedding.
Acquaintances seem to think I want to freely dispense it because I could. Often, I receive emails from random friends of friends asking where to buy a wedding gown, what florist to talk to, and what deejays to avoid. I will tell you this - I do not smile when these emails hit my inbox - I cringe.
Do you value your own time? I hope so!
Think about it like this - Would your client walk into a restaurant and ask for a discount simply because they did not budget for the filet? Would they walk into The Gap and ask to pay wholesale because the retail cost doesn't fit their budget? No, no they would not. Don't let your potential clients do this to you either.
You are worth what you charge - and most likely more! Figure out your prices and stick to them.
3 inspiring comment(s):
Great post, girl! I hope many of your Pearls readers see this one. :)
Aletha,
You have so hit the nail on the head!
May I ask, how do you respond to these kind of inquiries from friends of friends, or even clients?
Would love to hear your take on it.
Hi Event Girl -
When I get these emails, I reply with "if you'd like to set up a consultation, I'd love to help you with your questions. Our rates are listed on our website."
It actually happens in social situations more often. And in that case, I simply stop talking and just shut my mouth. Acting like I know nothing/am not interested usually changes the subject quickly.
Clients, or potential clients on the otherhand, is a different business. There is fine line about sharing too much during an interview meeting. I've kicked myself this year a couple of times already! I'm still learning the delicate balance :)
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