ST Alpha - "Also, as a little trick, keep your "billable hour rate" high to offer discounts for large projects." (Reading a Post)

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In response to "It's a rule of thumb. :-) Alter as you wish, but make sure you list everything you're going to have to buy when you're self employed." by ReluctantCynic

Also, as a little trick, keep your "billable hour rate" high to offer discounts for large projects.

Posted by ReluctantCynic (aka ReluctantCynic) Nov 23 '16, 20:11

If someone has a project you think will take 100 hours, that is a huge benefit to you (it fills 10% of your need for the entire year) and will save you some time hustling for more clients -- which you can't bill. So, offer 'em a 20% to 25% discount off your billable hour rate.

If you start with your lowest, bare bones hourly rate that will just barely cover expenses and give you a lean salary, you have no room to negotiate at all. And clients will expect you to negotiate a lower rate for larger projects.

I had to learn that the hard way. :-\

Responses:

I really do appreciate your advice, btw, I just fear that you're correct. -- nm - Beryllium Nov 23, 20:23
Starting out, this will be a full time engagement with a single company. -- nm - Beryllium Nov 23, 20:16 4
- which you could probably do a reasonable amount cheaper. economies of scale! or something. - mafic Nov 23, 20:29 2
  - This is what I'm working through right now. Haven't reached out to an accountant yet, though. - Beryllium Nov 23, 20:32 1
    - Definitely talk to an accountant. Also, if you're working full-time as a contractor for one client ... - ReluctantCynic Nov 23, 20:52
- I don't want to pitch a number that leaves me jobless. Because change is coming. -- nm - Beryllium Nov 23, 20:21

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Also, as a little trick, keep your "billable hour rate" high to offer discounts for large projects.

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