How to Raise Your Prices and Keep More Profits

Most freelancers focus on growing their top line revenue which leads to an even bigger bottom line. But here’s the thing — while there are several ways to grow a business, not all of them actually grow your revenue, or more importantly your profits.

So, what should you do?

If growing your revenue is at the top of your list for 2023, then the best place to start is raising your prices.

Yes, I know that the thought of raising your prices can evoke anxiety. Having worked with hundreds of freelancers, and growing my own copywriting agency in a very short period of time, I can tell you that  hiking your prices is always difficult, but it’s important, and not just for your business.  

Raising prices is an essential step for helping you develop the mindset needed to really take your business to the next level.

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The Problem With Saying “Yes”

Many freelancers are addicted to getting a yes from every client. Afterall, it’s how they were able to start the business in the first place.  

Addiction to the “yes” makes us hesitant when it comes to raising prices — always looking for the next yes causes you to undervalue your work. This means that you are not priced correctly in the market and missing business revenue growth.

As I’ve said, raising your prices can feel scary, there’s fear of losing business and your inner voice questioning if you’re truly worth it. Believe me, I’ve been there and have come out on the other side to help you get beyond these limiting beliefs.

It’s fear and scarcity mindset that hold us back from raising our prices. What if someone says no? What if people say they can’t afford it? They are not your customers. As you grow your business, you’re going to outgrow your customers. And that’s ok!

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You're Not Alone

Most business owners are guilty of underpricing their services. I did for many years, and the truth is that every quarter that goes by, you have gained more experience, perspective, customers, testimonials, and proof of your work. Each of these elements increases the value of your services or how you deliver your product.

We all like the feeling of clients and customers who say yes quickly. It feels good on both sides right? I had a mentor tell me once that if they say yes too quickly, then it’s time to raise prices.

And if you’re backed up with a waitlist….well then you really need to raise those prices!

If price-raising makes you feel anxious, then I encourage you to always be raising prices just a little, on every new project. This is obviously more challenging when you have posted prices on your website or ecommerce product page, but the mindset and approach should be the same.

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How you know you hit the sweet spot

Always be reviewing and raising prices until you start hitting the ceiling.

And what is that ceiling?

You know that you’ve probably plateaued when the yes’s slow down or become more painful. I know my prices are set correctly when it takes clients a few days, and even a follow up call before they say yes. It hurts a little...or sometimes a lot. And they tell me that it does. But here’s what I know, the transformation begins with the transaction and when it hurts, they value the work more and end up being a more focused and collaborative client.

That’s the kind of business I want to grow. Raising my prices raises the caliber of clients I get to work with.

Trust me there are plenty of clients out there, even better ones that value your service and are willing to pay your prices.

And guess what? This has a knock on effect...better clients often means a better experience working on the project, less micromanaging and a more collaborative vibe

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How to raise your prices

• Make sure the time is right - Make sure your current clients are more than satisfied with your service. Be diligent about overdelivering on the value before you bring up new pricing.
• Repackage your services - Think of something relevant to add to your service or product packages that would cost you little or nothing, but would raise the perceived value to the customer. (Free ebook, bonus strategy call, etc.)
• Target a different customer base - Find a more elevated client base with the budget to support your higher prices. Think about more offering solutions to more challenging problems and price accordingly.

If you want more simple tips to grow your freelance business and raise the bar in 2023, Join our Facebook Group of freelancers, just like you and the best part... It's FREE.
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You're Worth it!

Raising your prices leads to higher revenue and quality of clients, this is a win-win! You may lose clients along the way, but you will come out on the other side with new, epic clients and more profit!

It’s simple, decide the next proposal you send will be for a higher rate. No if’s, and’s or but’s about it: you are worth it! Don’t hesitate, raise your prices today and thank me later.

It may not be easy, but you didn’t get into business for yourself to take the easy route. Take charge of your financial position, bring in more profit, and create space in your life so you can truly thrive!

About Lisa:

Lisa is a freelance copywriter and StoryBrand Guide who has built a multiple 6-figure, online copywriting agency, over the past 5 years. She and her team help startups and personal brands simplify their message and streamline their content marketing.  https://simplestorysolutions.com/

She also has a passion for helping freelancers stop hustling and start building thriving full time businesses. As a mom of 3 kids, she knows how to navigate mommy guilt, actually be productive working from home and coaches other freelancers through Full Thrive Freelancers with online courses, coaching and free training focused on leveraging the Upwork Platform. https://www.fullthrive.co/

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