Raising prices for a UX designer’s services can be a sensitive issue that requires careful consideration. After all, some clients may abandon services because they need to see an increase in quality.
Why do clients walk away when prices for UX designer services are increased?
Clients may break contracts when the prices of services are increased for several reasons:
- Unjustified price increases. Clients feel that the price increase must be commensurate with the level or quality of service they receive. They think they are overpaying for something that is not worth the money.
2. Lack of communication. If you announce a price increase suddenly, without prior notice or explanation, be prepared for customers to back out. The reason is that they may feel cheated or undervalued. Lack of transparency and justification for price increases can cause resentment and frustration.
3. Need for understanding of value. If customers need to see more value or benefit in your services for the increased price, they may decide it’s not worth the cost. They will consider alternatives. They may even enter into more expensive contracts where services can be sold for a higher price.
4. Financial constraints. Some clients may decline services because they cannot go over budget, which is perfectly normal.
5. Loyalty to competitors. If competitors offer similar services at lower prices, clients may switch to them if they see no difference in the quality of service.
6. Lack of additional incentives. A price increase may be perceived negatively if you don’t offer something extra — bonuses, discounts, or extended packages for loyal customers.
It’s important to explain the reasons for the price increase, at least to prevent customers from leaving when you raise prices.
Strategies for UX designer price increases
I’ve put together a few strategies that will help you increase the prices of your services and won’t scare clients away.
- It is adding value. Offer additional services or features that add value to your services for the client. These could include a more comprehensive selection of design concepts, Microcopy UX training, additional testing methods to improve user experience and other options.
- Demonstration of Expertise. Show your expertise and experience in UX design. Clients are willing to pay more if they see that they are working with a highly skilled professional who can offer unique solutions and insights.
- Transparency and price justification. Explain to clients why prices for services are going up. Show them what additional benefits they get for their money and how it will help them achieve their business goals.
- Create service packages. Consider how you can package your expertise by providing clients with UX design services at different prices. This will give clients choice and allow them to find the best solution for their budget.
- Continually learn and develop yourself. Invest in your professional development and training to keep up to date with the latest trends and technologies in UX design. This will allow you to offer more innovative and effective solutions, which will justify increasing the value of your services.
- Work on your brand and reputation. Strive to build a strong image and reputation in the industry, maintain expert blogs, and publish your research on reputable platforms. Gather testimonials and positive reviews from previous clients. They will help convince new clients of the value of your services.
Always remember that price increases should be commensurate with improvements in the quality of your design services.
Comment on when you last raised your prices and how you justified the increase for your regular clients.
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How can a UX designer raise prices without scaring away clients? was originally published in UX Planet on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.