Ladypreneurs, stop giving your expertise away!
Why is it that we, as female entrepreneurs, feel the need to give our time and talent away?
Sure, there’s a compelling argument that giving your business services away for free will help you build a client base. It can help you network and help get the word out about your business. And I don’t totally disagree. But it gets a little tricky when you want to make the transition from free to charging your clients for the services you’re providing.
The fact is, you’re probably giving away more than you realize. How many times has a friend asked you for advice, or asked to “pick your brain”? They ask because they view you as an expert and they value (notice that word…value) your opinion. So, charge them for it…. because you’re worth it!
In order for you to create a successful business, at some point you need to assign a value to your expertise and all of the services you provide. And you need to feel comfortable and confident that you should be charging for it.
The thing you need to keep in mind is, why would anyone ever want to buy from you if your reputation is that you always give it away for free? You’ve created a business and have likely spent some significant time and money to get there. It’s time you see a little return on your investment.
I’m not suggesting you start charging for every little thing you do. We ladypreneurs are a compassionate group, known for the support we provide and the community we build. Let’s keep doing that, but support each other in ways that can still build a solid business.
It’s going to feel awkward at first. But you’ve worked hard to get to this point in your career, so stand up and accept that you’re worth it! Over time, it will get easier to make that “ask” and you will find that you are no longer spending valuable time, energy and money giving your expertise away for free.
So how do you do that?
Set some realistic goals. That means doing the research to determine appropriate rates for the services you are offering. Know what the competition is up to and what they charge. Keeping in mind that your time is valuable. Whenever work takes you away from family, friends or the things you love doing, charge for it.
Practice how you will respond to different scenarios so that you aren’t caught off-guard the next time a friend asks for your insight. Create a script so that your words don’t fail you.
Figure out the most valuable pieces of your business that you’re giving away. Can you break it down into smaller items; charge for the things that set your business apart from the competition and give the “nice-to have’s” for free. It’s a win-win for you and your client.
And finally, ladies, remember that you are worth it and you deserve it! We are a tribe of smart, creative, successful women who can accomplish anything we set forth to do. Keep in mind, if you need a little extra support along the way, we’re here for you! Let us help you define your worth and step off on the right foot.
DARCI Creative
Total Brand Agency
