Project pricing - nothing to hide!

I’m often asked (mainly by other designers/marketers) ”why are you so open with your pricing - why do you list it on your website?” From the outset, I like to create a trusting working relationship with any potential client. I found that asking a client what their budget was set the wrong tone - did they think I would match their figure when I may have charged less?

I understand the clients I work with - for example - is it a small business that can make decisions quickly (which minimises the amount of amends / alterations) or are they a larger company with many levels of sign-off and potential changes of direction to complete a project such as a website or branding project? Having this insight (from both sides of the fence) helps me set my benchmark price based on timescale/complexity, which is beneficial to all involved.

How do I go about this?

If I am contacted via email about a project, the first thing I do is reply to say I’d be keen to help and find out more about the project and point them towards the relevant section of my website which gives an overview of what they can expect and costs before I book in a detailed scoping meeting and write a proposal. This gives the client the opportunity to decide if they have the budget for the project at this time, and would like to find out more.

Being open about pricing is really valuable and here are a few reasons why:

➔ It's open and transparent
➔ It sets budget expectations for both sides, no surprises
➔ It saves time putting together a proposal that won’t be of use

Budgets can be a tricky conversation, but I find being upfront and open is beneficial for myself and my clients for a great working relationship.

If you are looking for a new website, branding or marketing support - I’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch here.