Can You Raise Rates w/out 'Scaring' Away Clients?

Preston and guest AJ Cassata dive deep into the art of pricing, revealing how freelancers can confidently raise their rates without losing momentum. Learn the counterintuitive strategies that can help you attract better clients, work less, and earn more. Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Connect with AJ -> https://www.youtube.com/@ajcassataofficial https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajcassata/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Freelance to Founder, we dive deep into the art of finding your niche, exploring practical strategies for designers and content creators navigating the complex world of freelance work. Preston and Christine break down the myths about specialization and offer invaluable insights for finding your unique professional path. Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a freelancer struggling with the nerve-wracking task of increasing your prices? In this eye-opening episode, Preston Lee and guest host Christine Olivas dive deep into the art and science of rate increases, offering invaluable insights for freelancers at any stage of their career. Whether you're battling imposter syndrome or wondering if your rates truly reflect your worth, this episode is your roadmap to confident pricing. Links: Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It can be a real challenge to create a portfolio that actually converts new clients. This episode of Freelance to Founder dives deep into creative ways to showcase your professional expertise, even when you're new to the freelance world. Preston Lee and Christine Olivas share insider tips on how to build a compelling portfolio that attracts clients and demonstrates your value. Links: Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tired of networking groups that feel more like spam factories than genuine connection opportunities? In this episode, Clay breaks down the art of finding professional groups that actually deliver value, sharing insider tips from his own successful agency-building journey. Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a client's spouse starts meddling in your carefully crafted design process? In this episode, we dive deep into the tricky dynamics of managing client relationships when unexpected stakeholders enter the scene. Whether you're a freelance designer, consultant, or creative professional, you'll want to hear our strategies for navigating these delicate professional waters. Support our show sponsors: https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question: https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drowning in proposal and contract paperwork? Clay and Preston reveal the surprising truth about client management tools—it's not about finding the perfect software, but something else entirely. Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever sent a proposal, completed extra work, and then panicked about sending the invoice? Laura did exactly that—and she's convinced she's about to lose a valuable client. But here's the thing: the disaster she's imagining might only exist in her head. In this episode, Clay and Preston tackle the all-too-common problem of freelancers building up worst-case scenarios before anything bad actually happens. They break down why you should send that invoice, how to handle pushback if it comes, and why the story you're telling yourself is probably far worse than reality. If you've ever hesitated to bill a client for work you've done, this episode will give you the confidence to stop panicking and start acting. Support our show sponsors → https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question → https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it just me, or does it seem easier to close a sale when you're a freelancer than as a full agency? Amy Bridges asked this question which lead Preston and Clay to tackle the counterintuitive truth about sales, retention, and positioning—revealing why individuals often win deals faster, but teams keep clients longer. Whether you're debating growing your team or staying solo, this discussion will help you understand which approach actually attracts the clients you want (and why the answer isn't what you might expect). Support our show sponsors → https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question → https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An old client from two years ago wants the original design files from a past project—but you're worried about losing future work by handing them over. Should you push back, charge for the files, or just let it go? In this episode, Preston and Clay tackle Kevin's dilemma about whether to fight for those source files or take the high road. Their advice might surprise you: sometimes the smartest business move is the one that feels like you're giving something away for free. Support our show sponsors → https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question → https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices