Navigating The Discount Dilemma Within Your Small Business
Running a small business is a dream come true, but let’s be real… dealing with friends, family, and that random person from high school who suddenly wants a discount can be a nightmare. Here’s how to handle it without losing your mind (or your profits).
The “Friend” Discount
So, you’ve just launched your business, and suddenly everyone you know wants a piece of the action. Your cousin’s best friend’s sister? She’s hitting you up for a “family discount.” Here’s how to handle it:
- Set Boundaries Early: Be upfront about your pricing. You can say something like, “I’d love to help, but I need to charge for my services to keep my business running. How about a special rate instead?” This way, you’re still offering a deal, but not giving away your work for free.
- Communicate Your Value: Explain the time, effort, and skill that goes into each shoot. Maybe throw in a few technical terms to impress them. “You know, the post-processing alone takes hours. I use advanced techniques to ensure your photos are perfect.”
- Create a Policy: Having a clear policy for friends and family can save you a lot of headaches. Share it upfront so everyone knows the deal and there are no awkward conversations later.
The High School Acquaintance
Ah, the joys of social media. Suddenly, that person you barely knew in high school is sliding into your DMs, reminiscing about the good old days in biology class and hinting at a discount. Here’s how to handle it:
- Be Polite but Firm: You can say, “It’s great to hear from you! I’d love to help with your photography needs. Here’s my rate card.” This way, you’re acknowledging the connection but still maintaining your professional boundaries.
- Offer a Referral Discount: If they’re really persistent, offer a small discount for referrals. “I can offer you a discount if you refer a friend who books a session with me.” This way, you’re still getting new business out of the deal.
- Know When to Say No: Sometimes, you just have to say no. It’s okay to turn down work if it’s not worth your time or if the person is being unreasonable. Your time and talent are valuable, and it’s important to stand up for what you deserve.
The Random Freebie Hunter
Then there’s the person who thinks your photography business is a charity. They want free photos for their blog, their Instagram, their dog’s birthday party. Here’s how to handle it:
- Explain Your Costs: Politely explain that your business has costs—equipment, software, time. “I’d love to help, but I need to charge for my services to cover my costs and keep my business running.”
- Offer a Trade: If you’re open to it, offer a trade. “I can offer you a discount if you promote my business on your blog/Instagram.” This way, you’re still getting something out of the deal.
- Stick to Your Guns: It’s important to stick to your pricing. If you start giving away your work for free, it devalues your business. Be confident in your worth and don’t be afraid to say no.
The Family Freebie Expectation
And then there’s family. They love you, they support you, and they think your photography services come with a family discount—or worse, for free. Here’s how to handle it:
- Set Clear Boundaries: Have a heart-to-heart with your family about your business. Explain that while you love them, you need to charge for your services to keep your business running. “I’d love to help, but I need to charge for my services to cover my costs and keep my business running.”
- Offer a Family Rate: If you’re comfortable, offer a special family rate. Just make sure it’s still fair to you. “I can offer you a family rate, but I still need to cover my costs.”
Running a small photography business is tough, but navigating the discount dilemma doesn’t have to be. By setting clear boundaries, communicating your value, and knowing when to say no, you can keep your business thriving and your sanity intact. Remember, your time and talent are worth it!
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