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I would bet solid money that most all freelance designers go through (or are currently going through) the “underpricing” dilemma.  At the time - generally when you don’t have any work - it can seem like a grand idea.  Yet, once reality decides to invade the situation, you find yourself like most 9-5′ers… overworked and underpaid.

Steven Snell has a great article on The Costs of Under Pricing Your Design Services.  It’s short enough for a quick read while touching on some crucial points when it comes to the costs of underpricing.

Tags: freelancing, freelancer tips, freelance tips

Steven Snell has authored a post over on FreelanceSwitch about ways that pricing impacts clients.  Being a freelance web designer myself, I know that setting your rates is one thing that can completely drive you up the wall.

I honestly believe that I’ve priced my services spot on for the 6-years I’ve been freelancing full-time.  Now that’s not saying that I didn’t quote too low or too high sometime or another.  Just that I’ve always been comfortable with my pricing.

However, after the first year of freelancing I gained experience and knowledge and felt that my rate of compensation deserved to increase as well.  Surprisingly (not so much now) this was a very stressful time for me.  Over the years it has become much easier to progress and grow.

If you are thinking about how you should price your services, don’t miss out on this post.

By constantly charging rates that are lower than other freelancers, you’re bound to develop the mindset that your services aren’t on par with the services of others. Likewise, charging higher rates will cause you to view your services in a positive light. This mentality can carry over to your quality of work, because it is subconsciously what you expect from yourself.

The Subtle Effects of Pricing on the Mentality of Clients - FreelanceSwitch - The Freelance Blog

Tags: settingprices, freelancing, freelance tips, freelance

I was browsing over on FreelanceSwitch tonight and saw a thread with the title “Freelancer or Company?”  The question posed was by an individual starting out who has aspirations of having employees.

For me, I personally thrive in freelancer mode.  I could probably make more money transitioning into company mode and building a team of good people around me.  I truly enjoy the experience of working with clients though.

Of course, there’s always those “special” clients… I digress.

At this point in my life a truly value my freelance career.  I have three small children and freelancing gives me the freedom to take them to school, pick them up and spend good time with them.

Sure the four-walls of my office drive me crazy sometimes… but that’s when we hit the mobile office (otherwise known as the coffee shop).

I truly enjoy what I do and my clients appreciate the personal attention.  It’s a win-win for everyone.

My goal is to eventually move to a company environment as the kids grow.  However, six years of full-time freelancing has taken me on an amazing journey.

One day I’ll form a company, but right now I’m happy just doing what I do.

Tags: freelancing, freelancer tips, freelance, freelance web design