Negotiating Hourly Rates

Raise your rate with a process rooted in market data and value.

Model take‑home impact of higher rates with /finance/hourly-to-salary-calculator.

Prepare

• Research market rates for your role/location
• Map skills, certifications, and outcomes to business value
• Set a walk-away minimum and target rate

Frame the conversation

• Lead with outcomes: impact, reliability, speed, quality
• Share comparable data and examples
• Offer options: higher rate for flexibility, lower rate for longer commitment

Timing and leverage

• Negotiate after delivering value or when scope increases
• Consider multi-month agreements for stability

FAQs

How much should I ask for?

Aim 10–20% above your target to leave room to settle at a fair rate.

What if they say no?

Ask what would make a yes possible—scope, timeline, or structure changes can unlock budget.