When you set out to do your own thing the learning curve is massive. Depending on the variables of your endeavor there can be a lot to keep track of and manage. In the beginning no matter what we offer our pricing inherently will be set low. That’s just how it is. No matter if you’re self employed or have a small scale business it’s a learning process from beginning to end. Honestly your pricing is going to reflect that and thats ok. I know as an artist I’ve struggled with how to set my pricing and I still do. But I’m more aware of it after 10 years. I understand as I progress I need to value your my time and skill set more even amongst rising cost of living and even cost of materials. Your time is the most valuable thing you possess and understanding that as your craft evolves is key.
Now I’m not saying you should just start out and immediately set the bar super high, no. Think of it as a natural progression especially if you’re creating custom anything. If you prop yourself up right away you’re looking to fail quickly. Here’s the deal media is not your friend in the beginning because mostly what you see are people that were just like you but now years ahead having to go through the same process. Patience and determination is gonna prevail really throughout your journey. As mentioned your value is going to fluctuate in the beginning because self doubt, stress and just life will always get in the way. This may cause you to go back and forth. Again that’s ok. But after time when you’re more established and have more confidence in this thing you’ve built this is where you need to stick to your value. Repeat after me, “we do not negotiate”. Your price is your price because of time, experience mostly but also depending on your situation or rather overhead, if you provide a quality service and product people will line up for it. This isn’t egotistical it’s quality. You are your business and if you’ve done it right it will show. There will always be those people who want to wheel and deal. It is what it is but that’s not your problem. What will be a problem is if you start wheeling and dealing with everyone. This sets a reputation that now people will take advantage of. If you want to do so fine but need I remind you your time is the most valuable possession you have. Spending time haggling with people takes away time from good paying customers who paid good money for your focus, knowing full well you’ve created something others want as well. Make that time count.
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AuthorI don't consider myself a pro I've just been doing this for over 10 years. Archives
February 2025
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