Confessions with Jess and Cindy $15K Minimum: How Kel Haney Raised Her Consulting Rates (And Got Clients to Say Yes)
Ever wonder how some consultants seem to effortlessly land high-paying clients while you're still struggling to break the $5K mark? This week's guest, Kel Haney, spills the tea on her journey from theater director to six-figure fundraising consultant.
Kel shares how she transitioned from a 20-year career in theater to becoming a sought-after fundraising consultant, specializing in mid-level donors and her signature "5-minute fundraising ask." She candidly discusses her initial resistance to networking, her mindset shifts around pricing, and how she learned to articulate her unique value proposition.
But here's the kicker: Kel reveals how she went from charging $30-50 an hour to a $15K minimum for her consulting packages. And spoiler alert: clients are saying yes!
We dive into the nitty-gritty of Kel's business model, including how she structures her offers, her approach to business development (hint: it's all about relationships), and why she's committed to keeping her business lean and mean.
Kel also shares her secret weapon for staying motivated during the less-than-glamorous parts of running a business. Let's just say it involves a green visor and a healthy dose of playfulness.
Key Takeaways:
- Clarity is queen: Kel's business took off when she got crystal clear on her niche and how to articulate it. Take the time to refine your messaging – it pays off.
- Invest in yourself: Kel credits her rapid success to investing in coaching and professional development. It's not an expense, it's a fast pass to success.
- Relationship-building trumps cold outreach: Kel's high-ticket clients come from nurturing her network and being genuinely curious about people's needs.
- Keep it lean: By maintaining low overhead, Kel maximizes her profit margins and gives herself more flexibility in her business.
- Don't be afraid to raise your rates: Kel's story proves that when you offer unique value, clients are willing to pay premium prices. Know your worth and price accordingly.