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Charge Your Worth
By Nell Taliercio | October 13, 2008
Recently there was a conversation on a work at home mom forum about charging what you’re worth. It made me think of my own story. I started my VA business back in 2004 and when I did my skills and experience were low. So it was my decision to also make my rates low.
Until I could gain the skills, experience & confidence I needed to up my rates I just couldn’t feel comfortable charging $30.00 per hour. And the more skills and experience I gained the more I did increase my rates.
After awhile I closed my doors and focused on affiliate marketing. I took on freelance VA projects here and there but my business closed. I closed my doors never seeing more than $15.00 per hour. (I started my business at $10. per hour) I now look back and see that I should have been charging more than that.
So when I decided to re-open my VA business doors early this Fall I had to take a good hard look at what I wanted to charge. Not only wanted but what I knew I was worth. Even knowing that I had tremendous experience, education and skills in the area I was specializing in I still had a hard time setting the rate I knew I was worth.
But this time around I stuck to my guns and didn’t let fear interfere. I didn’t let the self doubt creep in. I didn’t let the thoughts of “I won’t get clients at this rate” take over my confidence that I am worth the rate and will get clients and they will be thrilled to pay me what I’m charging.
So what about you? Are you charging what you’re worth? Tell me your story about your VA rates.
Topics: Virtual Assistance |
October 17th, 2008 at 9:29 pm
I think I have finally found the right rate for me. I am a hard worker and I only give 100% to my clients so I think yes, I am charging what I am worth. I could charge more but I don’t think I’m specialized in a particular area just yet that would give me the confidence to charge more.
Once the word of mouth starts to play a role in getting my co’s name out there clients will realize they are getting what they pay for.
Great topic Nell. I’ve be back and forth on this so many times. Oh, and welcome back to the VA world.
Nan’s last blog post..Get Your Business in Front of Holiday Shoppers
October 17th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
I know what you mean. I am refocusing already and going to only specialize in search engine optimization. This will not only set me apart but will easily allow me the rates I feel I’m worth.
You’re a great VA, Nan
Nell