Why Your Prices Shape More Than Just Profits

In the world of personal styling, as in many specialized services, pricing isn't just a number—it's a statement. It's about the value you provide, the quality you deliver, and the type of clients you aim to attract. In my role as business coach to personal stylists you tell me that you encounter a common refrain from your audience: "Your services are too expensive." This isn't just feedback; it's time to stop and take a closer look at who you are attracting.

Listen Wisely...

When you hear criticism about your prices, consider the source. Is the feedback coming from your ideal client, or from someone who doesn’t align with the client profile you are targeting? Not every piece of advice is worth its weight in gold, especially if it’s not coming from a market segment that you aim to serve. The truth is, advice is abundant, but relevant advice is rare. As a business coach, I encourage you not to just listen to just anyone. Filter the feedback through the sieve of your business goals and target audience.

Set the Tone with Your Pricing

Your pricing strategy sets the tone for the type of clients you attract. Higher prices often filter out bargain-hunters and attract clients who value quality, exclusivity, and personalization. These clients are not just buying a service; they're investing in an experience and in expertise that they regard as worth the premium. They're the ones who appreciate what you bring to the table and trust your vision.

Price Harmony: Feel Good About What You Charge

It’s crucial that your pricing not only reflects the value of your services but also feels right to you. If your prices are too low, you might start to resent your work. This resentment can seep into your service, potentially leading to a less-than-ideal experience for your clients. Conversely, when your prices align with your sense of value, you approach each job with enthusiasm and commitment, ensuring that you deliver your best. Ultimately, if you don’t feel good about what you’re charging, neither will your clients.

The Value of Expertise

Why should you not undervalue your service? Because when you set your prices, you're also setting a perceived value on your expertise and the transformational impact of your work. A personal stylist does more than choose clothes; you craft a client's image, boost their confidence, and often, change their lives.

So, next time you hear "Your services are too expensive," take a moment to consider who is speaking and what your prices are speaking to them. Your fees are not just a barrier; they are a gateway. They determine who walks through your door and the value they perceive before they even meet you. Stick to your vision, understand the worth of your offerings, and price them not just for what you do, but for what you represent.
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