Knowing Your Value

Last month I bid on a project. The more accurate term is underbid a project. I was in between tasks and needed the cash flow. I put in a bid, in part for cash flow, in part to help a client and a friend. Now the client isn’t happy with part of the deliverables. Not the work that I’ve done, but I’m still tied to the project.

It’s my fault. It’s a project that should have gone for at least three times as much as I bid it for. I knew that going in but wanted and needed the cash flow. Now, after two rounds of revisions, I’m receiving messages about the project, after the client had approved it. I’ll have to go through my emails and messages and make a determination if I’ll continue to invest my time into this project.

I’ve got no problem with completing the tasks, yet if the client was satisfied and after giving approval, wants to rescind said approval, I’m not entirely certain how to move forward. Lastly, had I bid the project for it’s actual market value or better yet, for the price I would typically charge, I probably wouldn’t have a problem with doing additional work after the client approved it.

We must know the value we deliver to the market. The fees or rates we receive are directly proportionate to the value we deliver and the ability to hold true to it, no matter what.

Today, Tuesday, October 18, 2022, I am grateful that:

I’m getting some other opportunities. I’ve taken some steps to work in a freelance, open marketplace. It’ll be interesting to see what value the marketplace sets for my expertise. It’s a new endeavor and I’ve got a mentor walking through the process. My profile is completed and published, so we'll see how I compare to other candidates.

I’m willing to take action. It’s been a long time since I openly competed for clients. I’m curious to see if I still have my competitive nature. I’m sure it’s laying dormant and ready to be reignited once more. I’m not particularly fond of that side of me, but I’m behind and my feelings don’t matter. Results matter.

E.T. called last night. He said he wanted to check in. It’s interesting that when I don’t call, people rarely call me. I’ve taken the position that I’m calling people that add value to my mission. If they don’t, I’ll do my best to make time to have a conversation, but I’m no longer willing to indulge in meaningless conversations. If it’s not advancing me and my position, I’ll catch up at a funeral or wedding. The rest of it doesn’t really suit my current standing.

How do you determine your value?

Do you let your employer or clients set your value?

If you wanted to increase your compensation, what steps would you take to increase the value you deliver?

Be Great. Be Grateful!!!