A professional writing career takes passion, talent, and perseverance to succeed. At the top of the list of questions is, "What do I charge for writing services?" Unfortunately, there are too many variables to provide a definitive answer. As a professional writer you must consider your experience, average pay scale in your area, writing style, and competition. As a freelance writer, you have the ability to negotiate fees; but should you? Although there are exceptions to every rule, fee negotiation can backfire. Always remain consistent and base your fees on the work required, not on the amount someone will pay. You ARE a professional writer and professional writers do not provide services for free. Specify your terms, number of allowable re-writes and details in the contract. Yes, clients will need to be able to review your work; however, writing a free project is not an example. Instead, create a professional portfolio that highlights your qualifications and experience. Writing for free can potentially damage your reputation as a professional. So again, how to charge for writing services? Some writers charge per project, some per hour, some per word count and in some cases, a retainer fee. Charging per Project Charging per project may sound good on the surface; however, failure to calculate factors such as, research, travel, time, deadlines, expenses, taxes and extenuating circumstances can negatively affect your bottom line. Charging per Hour Charging per hour can be difficult for both you and your client. Charging per hour can make a writer feel rushed, which can result in errors and is rarely productive. Charging per hour can also make a client wonder if you're deliberately working slow to increase the payment, even if you're not. If you choose to use a per hour fee, calculate the number of hours it will take to complete the project, multiply the hours by your determined rate and quote that amount. Again, carefully calculate all factors before quoting to avoid undercharging. Charging per Word Count Charging per word count works well. Before quoting a word count price, ask the client whether the topic information will be provided or if research will be required? If research is required, factor this into your word count price. Opinions on word count pricing are as broad as the number of writers writing. Writers often undersell themselves by calculating a word count price by estimating the time they think it will take to produce the assignment. EXAMPLE: A 500 word assignment at .10/word would pay $50.00. If you spend one hour writing the assignment, you will be making $50.00/hour. Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? However, what if that 500 word assignment suddenly requires research, clarification phone calls, a re-write or simply takes longer than an hour? The 500 word assignment you quoted at .10 a word has actually taken four hours instead of two? You're now making $12.50 an hour! If you are taking that first leap into the wonderful world of freelance writing, you may want to start with a lower pay rate scale to build your reputation and then increase fees on an annual basis. Once established as a professional writer, charging a low word count rate may bring more clients, but at what cost? If you are able to accurately estimate the time it will take to produce a quality assignment, this may be a good route. On the other hand, a higher word count rate, such as .15. .25 or even .50/word, may result in fewer clients initially, but may increase your credibility and profitability. Choose the pay rate that works best for you. RETAINER A few things to consider when quoting a retainer fee:
Regardless of the pricing strategy you choose, your work will speak for itself. You will either reap great benefits or vice-versa. Always remember, your reputation is at stake! GO WRITE WIN
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