36
Answering the BIG Questions
plan should include a primary market and also a variety of smaller projects to diversify your business. (See chapter on Diversity.) So how do you know if you’re charging enough or too much? There are several tools available for comparing your rates with similar freelancers: • Check out the full appendix at the end of this book for specific rates according to industry, experience, and more. • Try out the Freelance Rate Calculator on FreelanceSwitch to find out how much you need to cover your business specifics: http://www.freelanceswitch.com/rates • Ask! If you’re rejected for too many legitimate jobs or clients, ask what the winning estimate was and follow-up with the potential client. While freelancers may not always be willing to talk numbers, happy clients sometimes are. • Check out the Further Resources in the Appendix for more ways to reach out to freelancer communities and get support.
How do you estimate a project? The overwhelming majority of freelancers discuss estimated costs with clients using a mix of hourly rates, fixed quotes, and general estimates. This variety is why freelancers frequently answer “It depends” when asked about a project’s budget. How do you price initially discuss price with clients? How do you initially discuss with clients? 823
Estimates 511
Fixed quotes Hourly rates only
209
A mix, or depends on the project
1,711 0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000