Determing Your Worth

By Amanda Smyth Connor1269975_coins_in_hand

More than once I have undercharged for a project. It can be incredibly difficult to create the perfect quote for a job, particularly if you are working with a new client. Obvious concerns include the danger of overcharging and never hearing from said client again versus undercharging and hating your life for the next two months.

Determining your worth as a writer is the first step in negotiating with clients.

Important Questions that Need to be Answered

  1. How long have I been in the professional writing field? Am I new to this or is this old hat?
  2. What is my level of experience with projects similar to the one being discussed?
  3. Have I worked with this client before and am I comfortable with their standard pay rates or should I push for more?
  4. How comfortable am I with the subject matter/how much time will be devoted to research?
  5. Will I be dealing directly with the client or will I have an editorial liaison as a go-between?
  6. How many writers are working on this project? Am I worked as a team or am I working on this project solo?
  7. What is the turnaround time? Is it appropriate or “pedal to the metal?”

This is merely a basic list to jump from but what other questions would you ask yourself before putting together a project quote?

Amanda Smyth Connor is a community manager for a major publishing company, owns her own wedding planning business, and has managed online communities and content development for many start-up and Fortune 500 companies.  She has been a professional editor for more years than she can remember.