Re: Motion Graphics Rate Increase

Very nice reel, Tim!

As far as raising your rates - I think you need to give notice ahead of time if it's a "new rate for 2008". By that, I mean doing a letter around December 1st or so: "with increased cost of doing business... yada... yada....". I think if you say, "my rate is now this, starting Monday", you're risking the relationship.

Another tact would be to talk to the client coming up on an anniversary of when you started doing work for them ("I've been working on this project for a year now...."). Sounds like this opportunity may be coming up for you.

Not knowing your rate, I don't know what percentage increase $15/hr. represents.. but if it's anything more than 7-10%, you may be fighting an uphill battle.

One other thought... sounds like this is a pretty comfortable gig for you. You could try just keeping your rate with them for now (or asking for a modest 5% bump), but any *new* clients are the +$15/hr. rate. See if you can attract work at the new rate. If so, you have much more leverage with the existing client ("I'm getting x for this type of work with my other clients...")

Good luck... let us know how it works out.

Christian Glawe
editor/compositor
www.christianglawe.com
Read my blog: http://blogs.creativecow.net/blog/111
Pain is temporary... film is forever.