The Single Most Important Lesson I’ve Learned Is To Never Work For Free – Here’s Why

This year I broke my own rule.

In a desire to “give back” I agreed to consult with the directors of a non-profit organization in the pediatric space. As many non-profits they have ambitious goals, lots of dreams and very little money. But when I began working with them, it was very easy to see why. I told them as much and gave them a series of ideas to solve this problem.

Unfortunately, I was met with “reasons” (excuses) why they wouldn’t be doing any of my recommendations.

No matter what I suggested, I’d get the same response.

This never happens when clients pay for consulting.

In fact, the more you charge for your services, the less pushback you get from your clients.

It’s almost like paying for your services makes them value your expertise more. So they come better prepared, they follow the steps, take action. As a consultant, it’s a pleasure working with such clients.

And as a client, I know the more I invest in something, the more seriously I take it.

Next time you think about giving away your services, remember “the transformation, begins with the transaction.”