Pay Me My Value, As a designer you should be very clear on your services and offers
You’re not a vending machine for logo tweaks at $5. You are a creative entrepreneur who solves problems, builds brands, and—yes—changes businesses.
Saying “pay me my value” starts with being crystal clear about what you offer, who you serve, and why your work is worth more than bargain-bin rates. Why clarity matters (and why clients actually appreciate it) If a client can’t picture the outcome, they’ll negotiate the price instead of the result. Clear services turn vague requests into aligned projects.
You’ll attract the right clients, reduce scope creep, and actually enjoy your work — radical, I know. Define your offers like a product line
- Signature Package: Your high-touch, transformational offer that solves a big problem. Price it like the deep value it delivers.
- Starter Package: A streamlined version for clients testing the waters — still profitable, still structured.
- Add-ons & Retainers: Ongoing maintenance, strategy sessions, or priority support that create predictable income. Each package needs: - Clear deliverables (what they get)
- Timeline (how long it takes)
- Client responsibilities (what they must provide)
- Revisions included (how many, exactly)
- Investment (a number, not “let’s chat”) Use outcome-based language Clients don’t buy hours. They buy results. Swap “10-hour branding project” for “Brand identity that increases conversion and positions you as the premium choice.” Tie deliverables to outcomes: clarity, authority, leads, revenue. Price with confidence (no, you’re not being greedy) Your price communicates value. If you lowball, clients assume low value. Use these quick rules:
- Cost-plus isn’t enough — factor in expertise and transformation. - Anchor with a premium option to make your signature package feel like the smart choice. - Stop apologizing for your fees. Confident language = confident clients. Scripts that make pricing conversations less awkward - When asked to lower price: “I appreciate your budget.
For this scope I can [offer A] or we can keep the full scope at the current investment — which one works better for you?” - When they ask for endless revisions: “This package includes X rounds. Additional revisions are $Y each. That keeps projects moving and your launch on schedule.” - When comparing to cheaper competitors: “I focus on [result], not just deliverables. If you want a quick logo, there are cheaper options. If you want a brand that converts and supports a premium price point, that’s what I deliver
.” Protect your time (and sanity) with boundaries - Use a clear contract with scope, timelines, and payment terms. - Require a deposit for new clients — 30–50% is common. - Limit revisions and set feedback windows. - Automate where possible: intake forms, scheduling links, and templated emails. Positioning tips for women coaches and entrepreneurs - Speak their language: Focus on how design supports coaching outcomes — credibility, client trust, and premium pricing. - Use testimonials and case studies that highlight transformation (revenue, conversion, client retention).
- Show process transparency: people trust systems, not just style.
Quick checklist before you share prices publicly - Is your offer outcome-focused? ✔ - Are deliverables and client responsibilities spelled out? ✔ - Do you have a contract and deposit policy? ✔ - Can you explain the value in one clear sentence? ✔ Final thought (yes, you’re allowed to charge what you deserve) Charging your value helps you serve better clients, grow a sustainable business, and stop trading time for pennies. Design isn’t a commodity — it’s a strategic investment. Own that, price it, and watch your business breathe. Want ready-made package templates, pricing scripts, and a client intake form designed for coaches and women-led businesses? Subscribe for weekly tools that make charging your worth a little less scary and a lot more profitable.
