Okay, I've recently changed found my niche and I'm moving things in that direction, from administrative services to copywriting and editing. The problem is I don't know how to rate my services properly. I want to be fair to my clients and charge them all the same based on the project. But projects can be so different in so many ways.

I've decided not the share my rates on my site because there are so many determining factors to consider:

Word Count
Time
Research required
SEO strategies

I'm starting to think I'm gonna need some kind of scientific formula to figure it all out! LOL!

Anyway, if anyone has any advice I'd be forever grateful.

__________________
L. Caroline Mills of LC Mills, Inc.
www.lcmillsinc.com

There is a ton of information in the Internet about what to charge for freelance services. Here is a link to one about writing and editing: www.writersmarket.com/assets/pdf/How_Much_Should_I_Charge.pdf

__________________
Collaborative Business Support

I've had the same problem with rates... I have worked out an hourly rate for 'pay as you go' services, and then developed packages for 10, 20, 30 and 40 hours and based these on my hourly rate with a discount. I don't advertise them on my website, but I do have an information pack where these rates are stated, for my specialist services I have no rates and suggest clients contact me to negotiate a fee.

When I just started out I looked at a lot of other virtual assistant websites who do advertise their rates and got an idea what the average fee was... I'm still not sure my rates are ok, but time will tell!

__________________
Jo Harrison | Virtual Assistant
Writer's Block Admin Services

I think the key to any service or any niche is to make sure of 2 things. 1) That you don't undervalue yourself. You need to figure out first what you NEED to make to pay the bills and what you would like to make...and 2) Remember to keep in mind all of the expenses that you will have, including taxes.

I've seen people on the forums here mention what they are charging (which is a no-no), or I've seen it on their websites and I cringe. I have to wonder if they are taking into consideration their expenses and the fact that they are now paying the full cost of all of their FICA and such.

Anyway...I would check out Peppy's resource, and google for other similar resources to compare to, but please remember that others may not offer what you do. They may be people who are underselling THEMselves. Look for what they offer - AND what they don't. Find a need that you don't see being met and fill it and you'll be able to charge a little more.

__________________
Pam Blackman - The Process Coach
Get more done in less time by streamlining!

Thanks so much guys! For some reason, PeppyM, that link didn't work for me. Not sure why but I will do more research through google and not undervalue myself.

__________________
L. Caroline Mills of LC Mills, Inc.
www.lcmillsinc.com

Thanks for the link PeppyM! Great information. Very much appreciated.

__________________
Leslie Sansone Williams
LeslieSansoneWilliams.com