You are a professional, yet so many of you consistently undercharge or feel guilt or even imposter syndrome when pricing out your services or even putting proposals together for work. Whatever it is, do you know what you’re worth and why?
I know many of you are already elbow-deep in the work you do to pause long enough to ask yourself what your value is. But whenever you grab a moment, whether it’s putting together a bill for a new client, writing an engagement letter, or just straightening up your desk with a cuppa before diving into the day, ask yourself what it is you do that adds the most value.
In simpler terms, what is the most valuable thing about you? Is it:
*Your multitasking prowess: nothing phases you
*Your years of experience dealing with ever-changing tax forms and regulations?
*Your mastery of apps, tables, and all manner of productivity software that allow you to complete more work in less time
*Your ability to communicate the most complex financial and compliance results in a way a child could understand
*Your willingness to listen and offer pointed advice when needed
*Your responsiveness and availability to your clients, all while setting reasonable boundaries
*Your intimate knowledge of business dynamics in a given niche, be it e-commerce, restaurants, beverage industry, professional services and beyond
*All of the above and then some.
You fill it in; it is YOUR value. Never forget, it is by all of the above and more that you keep people’s financial health at the forefront of what you do and their dreams alive. Businesses live and die or grow and thrive by your support, your abilities, your knowledge, and your willingness to take what comes and help.
You know it, you’ve earned it, you charge for it, and don’t ever feel ashamed or not worthy of it. You are a professional, and the clients willing to pay for it will, in their own way, always remind you of that fact.
Go forth and show your worth.