coaching fees

The following is taken from David’s interview with Leza Danly in 10 Super Coaches.

When did you first increase your fee, to what did you increase it, and why?

I increased my fee when my practice was full and I felt I could “hold” an increase. What I mean by that is that I felt I could include it within my self-image. I could imagine people saying yes to the new rate. If I couldn’t imagine it, I didn’t raise my rate.

First I raised it to $200, then $250 then $300 over the first two years. Then I went to 3 sessions a month for the same $300, then $400. A couple of years ago I went to $400 per hour, and my clients split that up in a few different ways-three half hours, two 45 minute sessions, one session a month for $400, or some work with me in groups of three.

What advice would you give coaches about charging clients?

Don’t make up a rate you think you should charge and wish you could get, but don’t feel willing to receive. I think it’s better to coach 20 people at $100 per moth than having a rate of $300 or $400 and only having a few clients. You need to coach. Coaching will develop your self-image as a coach, and as you witness your impact you will naturally increase your rate. Of course, this is only true if you are a GOOD coach. So make sure to develop your skills and your personal depth.