When I first started freelancing, I actually struggled to figure out how to rate myself despite having a killer portfolio. It’s like my brain turned into a jumbled mess every time I had to put a number on my worth. Can you relate? It can be a real challenge to find that sweet spot between charging what we’re truly worth and not scaring potential clients away.

But guess what? There will come a time when we can’t avoid having “the rate talk” with our clients. As much as we might want to hide under a cozy blanket and change the subject, it’s just something we have to face. Trust me, I’ve been there too. 😅

So, picture this: I’m sitting there, chatting with a potential client, and they ask about my rates. Now, here’s the thing: as a kickass creative freelancer based in the Philippines, I never want my rates to be mistaken for some kind of “discount” just because of where I live.Nope, my rates are based on my mad skills and expertise in delivering top-notch solutions tailored to their creative needs. It’s not about the “where,” my friend; it’s about the “what” I can do for them! 

In those moments,I take a deep breath and confidently explain that my rates are a reflection of everything I bring to the table.From the countless hours of honing my craft and staying on top of industry trends to investing in the tools and resources that allow me to work my creative magic and even making sure I cover those pesky expenses like taxes (ugh! Yep, it’s not just about the time and effort; it’s the whole package! 

It took me a few seconds to draw it, but it took me 34 years to learn how to draw it in a few seconds. - Paula Scher

So here are some helpful tips on calculating your rates: 

• Hourly Rate: Tracking your hours and charging the client based on the total time spent on a project is a logical approach. However, it doesn’t always accurately reflect the true value of your work. Often, the skills and expertise gained over years of experience shouldn’t be undervalued simply because a task can be completed quickly.

• Flat Rate/Package Rate: Offering a single price for the entire project is a straightforward approach. Many freelancers estimate the total hours required for a project and apply their hourly rate to calculate the flat rate. While this method is common, it still boils down the value of your work to the hours you put in. It may not be fair if you work efficiently and complete tasks faster than others.

• Income/Needs-Based: This approach shifts the focus from the value of your work to the income you need to sustain your desired lifestyle. By determining your monthly expenses and the number of projects you can handle each month, you can price your services to meet your income goals. However, this method may not suit everyone, especially if your financial needs are low. It can feel unnatural to ask for money that exceeds your actual needs.

• Value-Based: This approach considers the value and impact your work will bring to your client’s business. Instead of basing your rates solely on hours or expenses, you tailor a custom quote for each client based on the specific benefits and results they will gain from working with you. This approach requires you to step into an expert role, showcasing the unique value you can bring to a project. It gives you more control over your income and establishes your worth based on the impact you create.

My Approach to Pricing:

Initially, I relied on the flat rate or package rate method, which worked well for me in the early stages of my freelance career. However, as I started attracting clients with varying budgets, I became interested in the value-based approach (I’ll talk more about Value-Based Approach on the next blog!) and then the hourly rate for my long term retainer clients.Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all pricing model, I began tailoring my rates based on the specific benefits and outcomes my clients would receive. This allowed me to better align my pricing with the value I provided and attract clients who truly appreciated my expertise. 

Through my personal experience and trial and error, I realized that the flat rate or package rate method still resonated with me the most. This realization led me to develop the Creative Freelancer and Design Packages calculator. This user-friendly tool will help you identify your hourly rate as well as set competitive flat rate or project rates based on your specific services.

As a creative freelancer, pricing yourself accurately is crucial for sustainable growth and success. By understanding your value and implementing the right pricing strategies, you can attract ideal clients who appreciate your expertise and are willing to pay for the quality you provide. Remember, it’s essential to regularly assess and adjust your rates as you gain experience and refine your skills. Utilize the Creative Freelancer and Design Packages Calculator to streamline your pricing process and confidently unlock your value as a creative freelancer.

Sign up below to download the “Creative Freelancer and Your Design Packages Calculator” and take the next step towards pricing yourself effectively in the ever-changing world of freelance creativity. ✨

We may find ourselves in situations where explaining our rates is unavoidable. It’s during these moments that we have the chance to advocate for our worth and educate our clients about the value we bring to the table. 

Also, starting out at lower rates is totally cool when you’re still in that upskilling and niching process. We’ve all been there. It’s like learning to ride a bike—we start with training wheels before we can do those rad tricks. BUT AGAIN, remember, it’s not about where we’re based, but about our skills, expertise, and dedication to delivering exceptional results. So let’s have those conversations, with openness, transparency, and an unwavering belief in our value. 

In the next few weeks, I’ll be talking more about money and things like paying yourself, taxes, etc. If you have specific questions or things you’d like me to cover, let me know in the comments or leave a message through the contact page!

Yay! Cheers to embracing our unique paths to success and supporting one another on our entrepreneurial and freelancing adventures 😉