The hosts discuss whether it is advisable to pay subcontractors by the hour, exploring various methods for determining freelance pricing and suggesting negotiating a flat fee per project. They also discuss the importance of marketing oneself online as a freelancer and highlight a lead generation tool called Solid Gigs. Lastly, they emphasize the importance of pricing freelancer services based on the cost of subcontracting the work and allowing for future growth and flexibility in adjusting rates.
Paying subcontractors a fixed fee per project helps maintain consistency and aligns with value-based pricing.
Charging based on the value freelancers provide rewards efficiency and encourages a focus on results rather than time spent.
Deep dives
Charging subcontractors by the hour or value-based?
The question raised in this episode is whether it's better to pay subcontractors by the hour or based on the value of the project. The hosts discuss the benefits of value-based pricing and how it aligns with charging clients. They suggest negotiating with subcontractors for a flat fee per project to maintain consistency. If hourly payment is necessary, the hosts advise determining the average cost by estimating the number of hours needed for a typical project. They emphasize the importance of knowing your numbers and padding the estimate to account for variations.
Setting payment structure for subcontractors
The hosts provide two approaches for structuring payment to subcontractors. Firstly, they recommend setting a budget for the project and finding a freelancer who can complete it within that budget. Rather than focusing on hourly rates, the hosts advise requesting a fixed fee from the freelancer. Secondly, they suggest pricing services as if you were subcontracting the work, even if you plan on doing it yourself. This creates the flexibility to hire subcontractors in the future and ensures that your pricing is sustainable and profitable.
The advantages of value-based pricing for freelancers
The hosts emphasize the advantages of value-based pricing for freelancers. They highlight that hourly rates can reward inefficiency and discourage freelancers from becoming more proficient in their work. By charging based on the value they provide to clients, freelancers can align their pricing with the results they deliver. The hosts encourage freelancers to focus on the value they generate and avoid billing for time spent rather than the value delivered.
On today’s Q&A episode, A former guest on the show, Jim, writes in with an important question: I know I shouldn’t charge by the hour, but shouldn’t I pay my subcontractors by the hour?
You might be able to guess our answer. Or it might just surprise you.
Let’s find out on today’s episode of Freelance to Founder. Here we go!
To submit your question, visit FreelanceToFounder.com/ASK, and we'll feature you on an upcoming episode.
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