Do You Give Away Your Services?

Last week there was a discussion on a list to which I belong about giving away your services.  Here’s what was posted:

I just can’t agree that discounting is a way to show that as women, we’re going the extra mile for our clients. On the contrary, I believe it shows that we don’t have confidence in our products or services. Everytime we do this, or everytime we give something away for free, we de-value our expertise.

Believe me, this is something I struggled with when I first launched my business. But then, as I started to see the changes I was making in women’s lives, I understood that I have a gift and that I need to be compensated for my gift. As a result, I don’t negotiate my prices and I get my ideal client.

Think about it. Who’s your most difficult client? Mine are those who I gave a discount to or one who got something from me for free. They are always looking for a discount because our relationship was established on a bargain-basement approach. That customer will never respect my fees because in her
mind, it’s always negotiable.

Every millionaire that I’ve heard speak always says that if you want to become wealthy or if you want to become financially comfortable, you can’t discount your services and expect to live the life you want. Read T. Harv Eker’s book "Secrets of a Millionaire Mind." Read Michael Gerber’s "E-Myth." Read Stephanie
Frank’s "Accidental Millionaire" or even Denise Michael’s "Testosterone-free Marketing." All will tell you that in order to run a successful business, you need to charge what you’re worth and stick to that price.

I would highly encourage each of you to reconsider discounting your prices as a way to build your client base. Instead, focus on clever marketing techniques or revamp your website content so you’re attracting your ideal client/customer.

Leesa Barnes, Career Transition Coach
https://www.savialane.com

Thank you, Leesa, for reinforcing what I’ve been telling clients for years.  You only create a bargain-basement mentality by giving away your services on a trial basis or doing work for free.  Stand for what you’re worth — you’re much more likely to get it if you do!