How to Negotiate Like A Pro

Talking about payment is tricky, but it’s a necessary skill to have when talking to clients, especially as you land more freelance projects.

Here’s how to negotiate like a pro:

1. Check salary resources and networking sites to educate yourself about pricing. Websites like 99Designs, Freelancer’s Union, and W.A.G.E. Guide.
2. Calculate how much you personally need to make a job worthwhile. Consider how much you need to break-even with business expenses.
3. Don’t be first to put out a number, if you can avoid it. Listen to the client’s first, he/she might offer a higher rate. You can try to bargain up if the price is too low.
4. Highlight the skills that are relevant to the job’s needs. Most clients are willing to pay more to get the right person for the job.
5. No matter how friendly your conversations are with the client, remember that this is a business agreement. Don’t accept a job you don’t want just to be nice.