Ways to Increase Your Hourly Freelance Writing Rate
You know, thinking about raising your rates as a freelance writer feels a bit like that first time you tried to add more weight to the bar at the gym. It’s intimidating. You wonder if you can actually lift it, if you should lift it, or if you’ll just end up dropping it.
But just like in fitness, getting stronger and progressing in your freelance career means you have to challenge yourself and increase the load over time. It’s not just about ego; it’s about growth and survival.
From my own experience, and from working with writers, I see many getting stuck on their starting rates. It’s understandable. When you first hang out your shingle, maybe you feel you need to price low to get work. But sticking there? That’s a recipe for burnout.
Why You Need to Think About Raising Your Rates
Increasing your rates isn't just some optional "nice-to-have." It’s essential. Here’s why I think so:
You Get Better: Simple as that. When you started, maybe your work was okay, it did the job. But after months, years? You've honed your skills, you understand clients better, maybe you've even specialized.
The value you bring is significantly higher than when you began. Your rate should reflect that increased value. I remember when I first started managing outreach; my initial attempts were clumsy compared to what I can do now. Experience pays, literally.
The Efficiency Trap (Especially Hourly Folks): This one trips people up. If you charge by the hour, getting faster means you earn less for the same project if your rate stays flat. Took you 2 hours at 100) before, now it takes 90 minutes? Boom, you just made $75 for the same output.
Doesn’t seem right, does it? You’ve gotten better, more efficient, but your income drops. You need to adjust your hourly rate upwards to match your improved efficiency.
Life Costs More: This isn't complicated. The price of everything goes up – housing, food, gas for the bike. If your rate stays the same year after year, you're effectively taking a pay cut because your money doesn't buy as much.
Regularly adjusting rates just keeps you level with the rising tide of costs. It’s basic financial self-preservation.
Figuring Out Your Rate: A Practical Approach
Okay, so we agree rates need to go up. But how do you pick the right number? It’s not about pulling a figure out of thin air.
Know Your Minimum: Before you even look at what others charge, figure out what you need. Add up all your expenses – personal (rent, food, etc.) and business (software, taxes, healthcare, retirement savings). As freelancers, we don't get benefits packages, so our rate has to cover all that stuff employers usually handle.
I learned this the hard way when I transitioned roles; forgetting those extra costs can leave you short. Calculate your baseline monthly need, then figure out the hourly rate required to meet that, assuming a realistic number of billable hours. This is your floor.
Factor In Your Expertise: Are you a generalist, or do you specialize in something tricky like tech writing or detailed financial copy? Specialization often commands higher rates because fewer people can do it well, and the value to the client is often greater. Your years of experience also count.
A seasoned pro logically charges more than someone just starting out. Look at industry benchmarks (you can find surveys online) but use them as a guide, not gospel. Your specific skills and niche matter.
Raising Rates: New Clients vs. Existing Ones
Here’s where the rubber meets the road. How do you actually implement these higher rates?
New Clients First (The Easier Path): Honestly, the simplest way I've found to increase overall income is to quote higher rates for new client inquiries. If you were charging $X, try quoting $X + 20% for the next prospect. They have no history with you; they're judging you on your portfolio, your confidence, and the value you present now.
It’s a lower-stress way to test the waters and build your own confidence in asking for more. As you land clients at higher rates, you naturally spend more time on better-paying work.
Talking to Existing Clients (The Delicate Conversation): This requires more thought. But good clients usually understand.
The Annual Review: My preferred method? Treat it like a standard business practice. Towards the end of the year (say, October or November), let your long-term clients know your rates will be adjusting effective January 1st. Give them plenty of notice.
Frame it professionally – it’s about market rates, your continued development, and business sustainability. You could even offer them a chance to book work at the old rate before the change happens.
The One-Time Adjustment: Maybe you really underpriced yourself initially, or your skills have drastically improved. You might need a significant one-off adjustment. This works best with clients you have a good relationship with, who value your work.
Be direct, explain the value you now bring (maybe you've taken courses, gained specific industry expertise, or your work consistently delivers results), and state your new rate clearly.
How to Communicate the Change (Sample Emails):
Here are a couple of starting points, but always tailor them to your specific client and relationship:
For Annual Increases:
Subject: Quick note on my rates for next year
Hi [Client Name],
Hope you're doing well.
Just letting you know that my freelance writing rates will be updated effective January 1, [Year]. My new rate will be [New Rate].
This adjustment reflects the value I bring based on my experience and current market conditions.
If you'd like to lock in any projects at my current rate, feel free to schedule them before December 31st.
I really appreciate our working relationship and look forward to continuing to support [Company Name].
Best, [Your Name]
For One-Time Adjustments:
Subject: An update on my services and rates
Hi [Client Name],
Hope all is well.
I'm writing regarding my work with [Company Name]. Over the past [time period], I've focused on developing deeper expertise in [mention specific skill/area, e.g., SEO content strategy, technical writing for SaaS] which allows me to provide even greater value.
Reflecting this growth, I'm adjusting my rates. Effective [Date], my new rate will be [New Rate].
I’ve truly valued our collaboration and am excited to continue delivering high-quality work for you. Let me know if you have any questions.
Best, [Your Name]
Justifying Higher Rates: It's About Value
Remember, you can't just ask for more; you need to be worth more.
- Specialize or Deepen Your Knowledge: Generalists often compete more on price. If you can become the go-to person for a specific industry or type of writing, you can command higher fees. Think about courses, certifications, or just deep-diving into a niche that interests you and has demand.
- Show, Don't Just Tell: Track the results your writing gets for clients. Can you point to increased traffic, better engagement, or leads generated from your blog posts? Case studies and testimonials are powerful proof that you deliver value worth paying for. Build relationships in industries or circles where quality is prioritized over saving a few bucks.
Wrapping Up: Own Your Worth
Look, raising your rates isn't about being greedy. It's about respecting your own skill, time, and the costs of running a real business. It’s like tuning your motorcycle; you need to make adjustments periodically to keep it running smoothly and performing at its best. Sticking with the same old settings forever just doesn't work long-term.
Take a clear look at what you need, what you offer, and what the market supports. Communicate professionally, focus on the value you provide, and don't be afraid to charge what you're worth. It’s a necessary step in building a freelance career that doesn't just pay the bills, but actually thrives.