A common dilemma with new professional language translation experts, as well as those who are experienced but facing new clients is how they should price their services. This situation becomes significantly tough in front of clients who are bent on getting their job done for the lowest possible rates. So what do you do in such a situation?
I would begin by recommending that you should first think through the effort that goes into your translations. This would include considering all the hours of practice and study undertaken by you to improve your skills. After taking all these into account you should decide upon a rate which you feel entitled to. This process would give you the confidence to stick to your rates.
Now we come to the situation where you are faced with a client who wants to go for the lowest rates. I will tell you first what not to do -
Don’t lower your rate.
Don’t get annoyed and tell the client to get the translation done from someone else.
Don’t argue or over-explain
Now we come to what you should do.
You should simply state your belief in the worthiness of your translation rates, backed up by your qualification and experience.
Never lose your cool.
Just state your price and the fact that they are justified.
Smile.
Let the client decide whether he/she wants to take your professional translation services or not. If the client agrees, superb, if not then tell them that they can always come to you later, be gracious, it always works.
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