If you are a women in a freelance business, chances are you are undercharging for your services. And doing so knowingly. Is that you?
[bctt tweet=”If you are a women in a freelance business, chances are you are undercharging for your services. And doing so knowingly.” username=”clbwithchris”]
I got an article in my email the other day, just after a colleague and I were talking about this exact topic. Not only were we discussing undercharging due to the fact that we are women, but also because of the area where we live. Local marketing and fees are much harder to do in our town due to the state of our economy in our county – or should I say, the perceived state of our economy here.
But this is nothing new. There are women all over the US undercharging for their worth and the value their work brings to the business they work for and with. So the question is why are we undercharging and how can we fix it?
Why Women Are Undercharging for Freelance Services
Why women are knowingly undercharging for their professional services—and how they can take back the power now.
Consider this:
** 20% of self-employed women say they have to charge less than their male equivalents to attract and keep clients.**
[bctt tweet=”20% of self-employed women say they have to charge less than their male equivalents to attract and keep clients.” username=”clbwithchris”]
That’s according to the FreshBooks, the #1 small business accounting software, 2018 Women in the Workplace Report.
Here are 5 strategies women can use to take the power back:
#1: CLOSE THE CONFIDENCE GAP
The only difference between you and your male counterparts is self-assuredness—so focus on closing the gap, whether that’s simply telling yourself you’re worth it or taking classes online.
#2: DO AWAY WITH HOURLY PAY
If you pay hourly, you might be reinforcing your value proposition as “fast and cheap” instead of “highly skilled.” Look into other methods of charging—for example, by project value.
#3: REMEMBER, EVERY RATE IS A NEGOTIATION
Males are 14% more likely to negotiate; even if you’re happy with the offered rate, you should lean in and exercise your right to drive the rate up even higher.
#3: “I USUALLY GET MORE THAN THAT”
In negotiations, this phrase makes you sound in-demand, confident, and highly skilled—AKA worth every penny.
#4: GET PICKY WITH YOUR CLIENTS
Specialists get paid more. Only take jobs that will help you advance a specific niche, furthering your reputation as highly skilled.
#5: START TALKING ABOUT MONEY
By talking to other experts in your industry, you’re arming yourself with data—so you’ll feel empowered with information the next time you ask for your worth.
Are you stuck feeling like you under value your worth? Start the conversation with others and price your work at a fair market value. Be proud of your skills and show your expertise!
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