As service-based businesses we have many decisions we must make. Decisions about the types of services we offer. Decisions about how we build those packages, and how we want to price those services or packages. While a value can be standardized there is something that can be very divisive. “Should I add my pricing to my website?” While some may say no way, I’m on a team happy medium. Just like most things, it’s all about setting expectations. A very controversial topic, today’s blog post will cover the topic: should I add my pricing to my website?
Every small business is completely unique. Although this is my experienced advice I want to warn other businesses to do what works for them! My hope is that this exploration will help you make the best decision for you and your business.
At Leona Collective I believe in transparency and therefore share starting price for all my services. For me, being transparent about pricing has been my way of communicating openly with my potential clients. I’ve found when sharing the prices that I often connect with my ideal client in a more effective way. These ideal clients go into my complimentary consultations already reviewing all the details of my services, pricing, and process. They usually join the consult wanting to know me a little bit better, ask follow-up questions, or are ready to book. Beyond creating openness, I’m a big believer that listing your prices helps communicate the value your services provide. Sharing your prices helps draw the big picture for potential clients who are new to your field.
While putting your prices on your website can communicate transparency and value, it can also backfire. If your prices are lower than average in your field, sharing those “low” prices could be perceived as a red flag. Likewise, if your prices are higher than average, sharing the “high” prices could deter potential clients. Note that if your website, copywriting, or content doesn’t align with your prices and ideal clients, visitors will pass you up quickly. Listing your prices means that all of the details of your brand need to work harmoniously to communicate a cohesive message.
If your prices aren’t listed on your website, you can in turn use your website as a place to showcase the value your services offer. Thus, when a potential client connects in an initial consultation, you can openly communicate and outline even more value. When you finally share your pricing, your potential client will be more likely to say YES after having been exposed to the value you serve. Therefore, when you communicate the value, your pricing won’t come as a surprise, because you’ve set a strong expectation through your communication and client experience thus far.
When your prices aren’t listed on your website, potential clients could determine your value without ever connecting with you. Here is an example, if the work you showcase is beautiful, but your prices aren’t listed, your potential clients may think: “these are surely out of my budget.” By not listing your prices on your website, you run the risk of missing out on connecting with potential clients personally and guiding them toward the services meant for them.
And here’s where my opinion and method of choice comes: happy medium! Set the expectation by sharing price starting points. You could use the phrases “our price for [fill in the blank] starts at _____.” or “ Our clients typically invest _____ in their experience.” Given these ‘starting at’ prices, potential clients ballpark understanding of your pricing, and can be encouraged to book a consultation with you to discover what their unique investment will be.
There you have it, folks! I’ve taken a very controversial topic amongst service-based businesses, and broken down the pros and cons in hopes you will find clarity on what’s the right way FOR YOU! If you liked today’s blog post: should I add my pricing to my website, please share it with a fellow business owner who might be struggling with the same dilemma. Until next time!
Surprised my name is Andrea and not Leona? You wouldn’t be
the first to think that. Leona is Spanish slang for “lioness,” which my mother affectionately referred to me as while growing up — mi leoncita, to be exact. It’s a name I’ve always worn proudly and, naturally, it’s evolved into representing this very business and the courageous brands I am honored to design.
Surprised my name is Andrea and not Leona? You wouldn’t be
the first to think that. Leona is Spanish slang for “lioness,” which my mother affectionately referred to me as while growing up.
COPYWRITE | TERMS & CONDITIONS | designed by leona collective | Copy by The Collective Source | Photos by Ailin Rachael Hyde photography