Summary
In this conversation, Christa Dhimo addresses the challenges freelancers face when considering raising their rates. She emphasizes the importance of viewing oneself as a business, mindset, preparation, and effective communication strategies to navigate these discussions with clients. Christa provides practical advice on how to overcome fears and anxieties about “money talk,” options for approaching rate adjustments, the significance of knowing one's worth, and navigating client reactions. She also shares resources for further learning and encourages freelancers to view these conversations as business decisions rather than personal ones.

Key Take Aways
• Raising your rates is a business decision, not a personal one.
• Start the conversation by framing it as an adjustment.
• Know your worth and prepare evidence for your value.
• Practice is essential to build confidence for discussions.
• Silence is okay; don't rush to fill the space.
• Don't apologize for raising your rates; it's not offensive, it’s a business decision.
• Be strategic about timing, client relationships, and your needs.
• Consider offering transition rates to ease clients into new pricing.
• Reframe the conversation to focus on value and sustainability.
• Utilize resources and practice to enhance negotiation skills.

Additional Resources

evidence based negotiation skills - Google Search. (n.d.). https://www.google.com/search?q=evidence+based+negotiation+skills

Jung, M. (n.d.). {Moxie Blogs}. Moxie. https://www.withmoxie.com/blog/how-to-know-when-to-increase-your-freelance-rates-and-by-how-much

The Futur. (2023, October 19). Don’t justify your prices. do this instead. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Abi8kwkfZbA

WP Minute Podcasts. (2025, May 6). How to discuss price increases with your freelance clients [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMS57dvMCi0

Video Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Raising Freelance Rates
03:13 Mindset Shift: Viewing Yourself as a Business
06:00 Preparation for Rate Discussions
08:50 Effective Communication Strategies
12:07 Handling Client Reactions
14:49 Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence
17:50 Resources and Final Thoughts
24:09 Contact and Bookings

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