What one thing do you wish you had know when you first started working at home?Arika Liddiard from TheyCallMeWahmmy recently asked me “What one thing, that you know now, do you wish you had known when you first started working from home that would have made things easier for you?”
I wish I knew how valuable my time really was. When I first started at home, I was terrified to ask about money. I had no idea what to charge and was scared to ask. Of course, the client’s job is to get work done as cheaply as possible. I just didn’t grasp that it was all a game and that my job was to push the envelope and get as much money as I could for my time. I got pushed around a lot and I believed in people. I trusted those that provided me work. In hindsight, I know that my time is worth much, much more than I was charging. I charge significantly more today and am still considered reasonable, but at least I know that I’ve tried!
Making the transition from work-outside-the home to work-at-home is full of challenges. I think moms often have the “I’ll do anything to stay home with my kids” attitude and will work for less than they are worth. Same goes for stay-at-home moms wishing to add income to the household. We all have talents - don’t be afraid to ask for what you are worth. Just because you work at home doesn’t mean you don’t have expenses. Computers, second phone lines, internet access, software, office supplies and equipment, utilities all add up! Don’t forget to include them in your thinking when first starting out.
Alice Seba commented on the “I’m just a wahm” syndrome, (But I’m a…) talking about how many people use that as an excuse not to spend money on their businesses. I think in the wahm community there are just as many fearful women, refusing to ask for the money they are worth because of the “I’m just a wahm” attitude.
Treece
February 26th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
Thanks so much for commenting and posting your one thing. I have to agree, as a VA it took me almost 2 years to charge a higher rate. Even now I know my time and work is worth more than I charge (especially seeing the work of others who do the same thing and are not as particular (ok perfectionist) as I am, but baby steps right?
February 26th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Get those prices up, girl! I’ve seen your level of perfectionism and it’s impressive!