Writing is a Skill not a Commodity

41 replies
Hi Warriors,

Yesterday I was taking a look through some of my old threads on the Warriors for Hire section and came across a single comment on my thread that said "price too high". Needless to say, that didn´t quite please me and I personally recon that this sort of behavior should not be tolerated. There are many venerable companies that provide excellent services on this forum and people who wont be using the services shouldn´t make irrelevant or negative comments.

On this note, it made me think that we shouldn´t allow Warrior to deteriorate to a level where quality content at a price of 2-3c a word is considered to be expensive but rather - an accepted rate for the well written. There is a market for content priced at all levels; however Warrior is home to individuals at all of these levels and the various sections should reflect this. I know that there are many professional writers on here who have stopped advertising on Warrior because of this and I think that it is a pity.

Just my opinion and I am sure that many of you will agree.

Antony.
#commodity #skill #writing
  • Profile picture of the author AFI
    I agree with you that is completely unfair. I would report the post with a good explanation to the moderator and maybe you can get it removed.
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    • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
      Jennifer,
      I agree with you that is completely unfair. I would report the post with a good explanation to the moderator and maybe you can get it removed.
      If the person posting that has not purchased that WSO, they are not allowed to make such definitive statements about it. If reported, that comment would be removed.


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  • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
    Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

    Yesterday I was taking a look through some of my old threads on the Warriors for Hire section and came across a single comment on my thread that said "price too high".
    PM this person and see if you can suggest a few writers that are more in his price range.

    Clients who don't want to pay premium rates may not just be cheap. Writing, for most people here, is a business investment and they need to see a good ROI. Whatever this potential client is doing has a lower ROI.

    Help him get good work that meets his goals, and he'll see more success. He may or may not ever do anything that needs your (or my) level of work, but if he does, he'll think of you.

    Invest a little time and effort in these people. Sometimes these investments pay off big.
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    • Profile picture of the author MichaelParsons
      Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post

      ... Help him get good work that meets his goals, and he'll see more success. He may or may not ever do anything that needs your (or my) level of work, but if he does, he'll think of you.

      Invest a little time and effort in these people. Sometimes these investments pay off big.
      I agree with Darklock, a relationship 'freebie' isn't always on the end of an e-mail opt-in.

      Sometimes someone will get into the "WalMart Mindset" and can't get out. If they do it for $10, why do YOU do it for $50? Sometimes they need to see the difference between a really well written, optimized, traffic generating article and something from PLR land. Once they see the penny-a-word stuff compared to something you wrote, they will understand that you have to pay a little more for quality.

      ROI on a crappy article will sometimes be negative...
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      • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
        Originally Posted by MichaelParsons View Post

        ROI on a crappy article will sometimes be negative...
        ROI on a high-priced article is often negative, too.

        Sometimes I get people that come to me for ten keyword articles they're going to post on directories. You need a lot more than a couple weeks to recoup my rates with that approach, usually, and I can generally tell from the keywords if you're chasing something that's not going to pay off in the near term.

        There's nothing wrong with just shrugging your shoulders and doing the work. I mean, if someone's begging to pay me $500 for a $150 job, hey - the customer's always right. But I've also found that it makes a real impact when you turn around and say "I am the wrong writer for this, and you would be paying far too much - for no better than you could get over there."

        Which, in turn, helps cement relationships with other writers. And one of these days, you will have too much work, and you'll want to flip some of your clients over in that direction. In addition, sometimes they'll get clients who need more than they can deliver... and if you've sent them business, your name might come to mind.

        One thing I've never had much luck with is the arbitrage method, when you take the $500 from the client and give $150 to the other writer for the work. I don't find any relationships coming out of that, ever... and I really wouldn't want to trade the relationships I've built for a couple hundred bucks. But it's an option, and hey, I wouldn't hold it against you.

        Of course, your clients might.
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        "The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers
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    • Profile picture of the author AHayes183
      Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post


      Help him get good work that meets his goals, and he'll see more success. He may or may not ever do anything that needs your (or my) level of work, but if he does, he'll think of you.
      I understand that there is always a way to turn a negative situation into a prosperous one. I do also accept that one of the hardest aspects of running a premium content company is in convincing people to try it out so that they can see for themselves. This has actually led me to perform some WSO´s where I dont actually make any money on the articles but introduce clients to my services - this seems to be working for the moment.

      However, on a morality note - I wouldn´t want to take any time out of my day to help an ignorant individual who is clearly not considerate. I firmly believe in associating myself with honest, clear thinking individuals and this is the same for online.

      In any event, my main point was more about the current content pricing climate on Warrior (now it sounds like im talking about the recession!). Its clear that on the discussion forums, people truly understand that higher rates need to be paid for quality content but this isn´t that reflective in the "Warriors for Hire" section. 1c/word should not be the the expected rate for quality content - even though it is possible to find a few diamonds in the rough.
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      • Profile picture of the author sal64
        Antony,

        I hear you. I just tend to refund these people immediately. The comment wasn't necessary, but I wouldn't worry about it.
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      • Profile picture of the author paulie888
        Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

        I understand that there is always a way to turn a negative situation into a prosperous one. I do also accept that one of the hardest aspects of running a premium content company is in convincing people to try it out so that they can see for themselves. This has actually led me to perform some WSO´s where I dont actually make any money on the articles but introduce clients to my services - this seems to be working for the moment.

        However, on a morality note - I wouldn´t want to take any time out of my day to help an ignorant individual who is clearly not considerate. I firmly believe in associating myself with honest, clear thinking individuals and this is the same for online.

        In any event, my main point was more about the current content pricing climate on Warrior (now it sounds like im talking about the recession!). Its clear that on the discussion forums, people truly understand that higher rates need to be paid for quality content but this isn´t that reflective in the "Warriors for Hire" section. 1c/word should not be the the expected rate for quality content - even though it is possible to find a few diamonds in the rough.
        Unfortunately, this forum is one where buyers tend to expect "bargain basement" type pricing, whether it is for WSOs or services. Prices, in my opinion, have sunk down to commodity levels, and that just seems to be the norm here, whether we like it or not. This is probably not the best marketplace to offer premium article writing services, IMHO.

        Paul
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        • Profile picture of the author francisj
          Originally Posted by paulie888 View Post

          Unfortunately, this forum is one where buyers tend to expect "bargain basement" type pricing, whether it is for WSOs or services. Prices, in my opinion, have sunk down to commodity levels, and that just seems to be the norm here, whether we like it or not. This is probably not the best marketplace to offer premium article writing services, IMHO.

          Paul
          I agree to this and the point is that there is no need to get offended,rather respect their opinion and keep your rate steady.

          As with all things, they have their opinions and you have yours. I just believe they are not your target market and I believe your target market won't care.

          Have you ever been to louis vuitton? I'm sure if you say their stuff is expensive they'll laugh at you or keep quiet.

          But i'm 99% sure they won't be offended by it.

          F
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          • Profile picture of the author paulie888
            Originally Posted by francisj View Post

            I agree to this and the point is that there is no need to get offended,rather respect their opinion and keep your rate steady.

            As with all things, they have their opinions and you have yours. I just believe they are not your target market and I believe your target market won't care.

            Have you ever been to louis vuitton? I'm sure if you say their stuff is expensive they'll laugh at you or keep quiet.

            But i'm 99% sure they won't be offended by it.

            F
            Exactly, you may be the "Rolls Royce" of article writing services that will only appeal to a certain select clientele, and if this is the case, then you probably do not want to be actively advertising your services here.
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        • Profile picture of the author Paul Myers
          Paul,
          Prices, in my opinion, have sunk down to commodity levels, and that just seems to be the norm here, whether we like it or not.
          That's because the acceptable level of quality is defined by a couple of commodities: Spinners and people who crank out "articles" on the basis of speed. Numbers per day are the goal, with little regard to the quality of the work, which makes them commodities by definition.

          That's fine if you're looking for search engine fodder. The challenge comes in when you have people who are only basically literate commenting on the "high quality" of the product. Most buyers don't understand the difference between SE fodder and content meant for human consumption.

          Two different products.


          Paul
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      • Profile picture of the author Vogin
        Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

        However, on a morality note - I wouldn´t want to take any time out of my day to help an ignorant individual who is clearly not considerate. I firmly believe in associating myself with honest, clear thinking individuals and this is the same for online.
        Come on now, anyone who doesn't agree with your price is not automatically ignorant or inconsiderate.

        As long as it is just one person, you should probably just make a note and go on. In case there will be more, it's time to reconsider your pricing/market.

        When someone disagrees with you, it's not something bad - it's a fantastic opportunity to exchange opinions and perhaps learn something new.
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  • Profile picture of the author myrnasy
    I agree with you Antony. Writing is not that is easy; it's not just putting any word you want. It's building a concrete and a whole idea from logically and grammatically arranged words.

    If someone does not want to accept a price from a writer, then there's no need to give an unwanted comment. After all, we all deserve to be respected for our wants. If he does not want your price, he is free to choose other writer without displeasing you.
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    • Profile picture of the author sal64
      There are basically 2 levels of quality when it comes to writing...

      Crap and chocolate. And no matter how low the price, crap will always taste and smell like crap.

      If you are good at your craft, find a niche... charge the price.

      From the sound of it, the offending poster had no business to make that comment. If it wasn't for him/her, they should just move on.

      I see see some amazing claims on the WSO forum, but in the end, I ove on.

      Not hard to do.
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  • Profile picture of the author GuerrillaIM
    Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

    Needless to say, that didn´t quite please me and I personally recon that this sort of behavior should not be tolerated.
    What sort of behaviour is that?

    Any time you sell a product or a service you will either be too cheap or too expensive for some people. As long as you offer good value in return for your fee and communicate this well you should not have any problems, although you cannot please everyone all of the time, and you shouldn't try to either.
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    • Profile picture of the author aandersen
      Originally Posted by GuerrillaIM View Post

      What sort of behaviour is that?

      Any time you sell a product or a service you will either be too cheap or too expensive for some people. As long as you offer good value in return for your fee and communicate this well you should not have any problems, although you cannot please everyone all of the time, and you shouldn't try to either.

      While I get what you are saying, I don't agree in this case.

      Coincidentally, I just happed to be reading the WFH section yesterday and ran across the OP's thread. When I saw the comment, my initial reaction was, "Wow, that was out of line."

      If the comment had been made by a customer who already purchased the product, and who felt the value was not worth what he payed, the comment would have been completely warranted. However, this was clearly not the case.

      It was the first comment on the thread after the OP's advertisement, and was something along the lines of "Hi, Don't you think these prices are a bit much?" If someone was on the fence after reading the copy, then scrolled down to see what others had to say, that comment may be just enough to push them to the other side.

      If it was my ad, I would have reported the post immediately.

      Besides, let us not forget this :


      Originally Posted by admin

      UPDATED: Anyone caught trying to purposefully harm another persons WSO will be removed from this forum permanently. If you bought the WSO you have a right to comment on it. However, if you have not bought it you have no right to say anything at all about it. You have no basis on which to even give an opinion one way or the other.

      If you think someone is trying to harm your WSO on purpose just PM admin here in the forum.

      This Rule is posted in the WSO section, but I think it applies to the WFH section equally.
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      • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
        Originally Posted by aandersen View Post

        It was the first comment on the thread after the OP's advertisement, and was something along the lines of "Hi, Don't you think these prices are a bit much?"
        Personally, I think the OP should respond to that and justify his prices. If he doesn't, I'd start to wonder if maybe he can't.
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        "The Golden Town is the Golden Town no longer. They have sold their pillars for brass and their temples for money, they have made coins out of their golden doors. It is become a dark town full of trouble, there is no ease in its streets, beauty has left it and the old songs are gone." - Lord Dunsany, The Messengers
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        • Profile picture of the author Oxbloom
          Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post

          Personally, I think the OP should respond to that and justify his prices. If he doesn't, I'd start to wonder if maybe he can't.
          This.

          Situations like this are why many warriors stake a claim on that first post below their offer. Turn it into an FAQ of sorts.

          For a good writer, this objection is no objection at all. Copy it, paste it, bold it, and respond to it in a way that makes *the right customer* see that yes, this service is for him. Not for that other guy, the one who thought the price was too high...but for him.

          If it's too late to stake out that first post, maybe bring it in to your original post as a part of an "FAQ"-ish area. Anything to address the issue upfront, before the reader gets to the perceived "negative feedback."

          If you've already handled it above, by the time the interested reader gets to the "price too high" post, they'll be laughing with you, not at you.
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        • Profile picture of the author francisj
          Originally Posted by CDarklock View Post

          Personally, I think the OP should respond to that and justify his prices. If he doesn't, I'd start to wonder if maybe he can't.
          I agree to this. And there is such a way to respond in a respectful manner, where in you can showcase what type of person/seller you are.

          His/her opinion is valid and for me, not trying to harm the wso rather it is more on actually voicing out his opinion just like you and me have a price range for high ticket items like cars and houses.

          The one thing that matters though is how it was stated, this is my opinion though
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      • Profile picture of the author GuerrillaIM
        Originally Posted by aandersen View Post

        It was the first comment on the thread after the OP's advertisement, and was something along the lines of "Hi, Don't you think these prices are a bit much?" If someone was on the fence after reading the copy, then scrolled down to see what others had to say, that comment may be just enough to push them to the other side.

        If it was my ad, I would have reported the post immediately.
        I don't think you should be scared of any objections. "your price is too high" is a common objection. This is a great opportunity to answer the question effectively and re-inforce the value you are providing for the fee. If you can't do that, then perhaps the price is too high?

        for instance, a reply along the lines of:

        "No, I don't think my prices are too much -- if anything they are too cheap!

        I am charging my offline clients 3 times this and they continue to come back for more. Infact, I can only take on a limited amount of clients as I am truly in demand and I want to make sure every client I work with has a quick turnaround and results they will truly be impressed with.

        This WSO will only last until I have some new and reliable clients to work with who truly appreciate the quality I provide. For -serious- customers who want quality work from a reliable provider, make sure to message me sooner rather than later to avoid dissapointment.

        With my service you get:

        <insert benefits and usp>

        When looking at my service (and others) in comparisson, make sure you check out the following points to make sure you get the best value for your cash:

        <insert info about downside of using a service that doesn't include all you include>"
        Getting objections out in the open and overcoming them will make you more sales!

        I can't prove it, but I am sure some successful warriors even ask people to post certain objections just so they can reply to them.
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  • Profile picture of the author Anne1985
    Prices should be kept moderate I believe
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    • Profile picture of the author paulie888
      Originally Posted by Anne1985 View Post

      Prices should be kept moderate I believe
      There are different levels of quality when it comes to article writing, and ultimately the best way to justify your pricing is to demonstrate that your articles can generate a positive ROI quickly. If your articles cost $20 each and you can demonstrate that they generate a positive ROI even at that high price, you'll be getting more orders than you can handle!

      Paul
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      • Profile picture of the author donhx
        Originally Posted by paulie888 View Post

        There are different levels of quality when it comes to article writing, and ultimately the best way to justify your pricing is to demonstrate that your articles can generate a positive ROI quickly. If your articles cost $20 each and you can demonstrate that they generate a positive ROI even at that high price, you'll be getting more orders than you can handle!

        Paul
        We agree again, Paul! It is all about ROI. People should not be trying to beat writers down to a couple cents per word, they should be trying to get value for money. People with real writing skills can get far more than a few cents per word.
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    • Originally Posted by Anne1985 View Post

      Prices should be kept moderate I believe
      By whom? I think buyers and suppliers dictate pricing in most cases. I'm sure you know prices in a free market go down with more suppliers outdoing each other, while it goes up if demand is greater than the supply, and if quality and utility for the buyer are in all cases equal, then price becomes more relevant than quality.

      I think this situation calls for the proper use of the common notion that a low price tag usually means lower quality, since it would be logical for buyers to assume that a low priced product/service or skill is made out of low quality components and can be found anywhere, so they would possibly look at the lowest prices. There is a buyer market for this price and quality range. In contrast, that common notion also possibly means a higher than usual price tag would be synonymous to high quality products/services or skills, while ridiculously high prices mean limited, avant garde products/services or skills for the upper class buyer. There are buyer markets for these, too.

      I think a supplier of limited, avant garde products/services or skills need not focus on a lower price and quality range buyer market. It would most likely be a waste of resources and could possibly affect the reputation of the supplier's products/services and skills in terms of quality and pricing in the perspective of all buyer markets.

      I for one believe the low price and quality supplier should on the other hand be prepared of inevitable competitor growth and should most likely think about the resources required to be spent to constantly grow and improve people, processes and technology to be a step ahead of growing competition, especially if new competition could possibly lower down prices for this price and quality range of products/services or skills to get more buyers and earn more profits, because this would ultimately mean the supplier in this price and quality range would need to lower down prices, too, since in this buyer market, price is more relevant than quality, and it's always easier to have the lowest prices than the best quality.

      For the middle price and quality range supplier market, I think these businesses only get trickles of all buyer markets. Why? I for one wouldn't go for middle quality, middle prices. What is middle quality, anyway... How can middle quality be defined? For me, it's just top quality and low quality, in terms of value for the buyer. I for one wouldn't buy special diesel if there is premium diesel and standard diesel, especially if the difference is a few $$$, though I wouldn't buy sub standard diesel if that were available. As a side note, I believe there are only experts and beginners, nobody is an intermediate, because both experts and beginners are individuals who constantly need to learn.
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  • Profile picture of the author DavidTT
    meh, I've paid for crap in the passed. I'll stick to writting them myself instead.

    Like the good ol' saying: If you want it done right, you gotta do it yourself!
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  • Profile picture of the author Barry Unruh
    Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

    a single comment on my thread that said "price too high".
    So? Hopefully you have cultivated testimonials from existing clients which are listed in your copy which blow his statement completely out of the water.

    You probably are "price too high" for him and his current level of expertise in IM.

    Most readers are not going to take a random comment from someone to determine the value of your offer.

    You could take his comment and have a lot of fun with it. Write a blog post style comment explaining the difference between price, value, and return on investment and add it to the thread. Explain your value is not based upon price but on your client's return on investment.

    You could then use this post in any new WFH thread you create to make sure people understand you are offering value and a solid ROI, not the lowest price.
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  • Profile picture of the author AHayes183
    Hi Warriors,

    Some very interesting responses, some controversial while others a little more agreeable. Thanks to a couple of you who understand that the comment was unwarranted, especially since the services weren´t purchased; however, some of you are also right that I should turn the thread into an FAQ so that my target market will have a clear indication of what would be in stall for them if they went ahead with an order.

    In regards to my market, the difference is that my prices aren´t reflective of "middle of the road" quality; but rather the most competitive price that I can offer whilst still providing high quality articles. Because I have a decent team behind me, I can produce bulk content while maintaining quality which as Paul Myers pointed out, is often sacrificed.

    In the end, this is a tough market to operate in; and in business of all sorts there are always going to be people that enjoy piddling on the fire - whether intentional or not. While we are on this subject, does anybody recommend a venue to advertise premium writing services?

    Antony.
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  • Profile picture of the author Fun to Write
    I agree with those who say that you should just respond by educating people on the value that your higher priced service provides. While it's unfortunate that this commenter grabbed the first post, you can easily turn things around and actually help others make the decision to try out your service.

    Some people like chicken nuggets and some like roast duck. Your responses should cater to the roast duck crowd.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dave Rodman
    Banned
    Hmm. Well a couple things.

    1) I don't think "Price Fixing" articles on the warriorforum is the way to go. If there is a demand for these low priced articles, then it's obviously what people want.

    2) I don't know why higher priced writers would leave the WF. Everybody has price-objections wherever they go. It's not like people here are different than other forums. If you've showed them a sample and they still don't see the value, then what can you do?

    3) This is just a personal opinion, but I think there is far more value (for both parties) when you're dealing with technical writers that know a lot about specific subjects. THOSE ARE worth the money they charge. I don't find that much value, for my purposes, from a writer that got a degree, worked at a local newspaper, and has been freelancing at random magazines. An example of a technical writer would be the guy in the paper that answers questions related to year end taxes. An example of a typical garden-variety writer would be the person that writes the "5 ways to save money this Holiday season" and then cites "Coupons" as one of those ways. *Sigh*

    4) If I continually came up with this problem, I'd try to find some kind of solution. With writing it's harder to package the product, but maybe you can have some writers in the stable. And then all you do is the editing once they are done. Just call them what they are....just content to fill the pages of your website.
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    • Profile picture of the author Audrey Harvey
      Originally Posted by Dave Rodman View Post


      1) If there is a demand for these low priced articles, then it's obviously what people want.
      Some people just don't have the budget for more expensive writers, even if the quality is better. That's just the way it is for them, so there's a demand there that needs to be filled. I don't see a problem with people filling that demand if they're happy to work for that rate. I'm not.

      [QUOTE]
      3) This is just a personal opinion, but I think there is far more value (for both parties) when you're dealing with technical writers that know a lot about specific subjects. THOSE ARE worth the money they charge.
      [QUOTE]

      Absolutely totally agree. I don't touch anything other than my area of expertise because there are others out there who are better than me at that sort of work. Having said that, my expertise in my niche is huge.
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  • Sorry, Antony. I disagree.

    Frankly, I was tempted to edit your post, pointing out the mistakes in grammar and punctuation, just to prove that your opinion of your own work might be unjustified. But that would have been pointless.

    Consider this: the person who commented that your rates were too high was right. If you can get the same quality of content for less money, then you are overpriced in this marketplace.

    Maybe you should be looking somewhere else to offer your writing services. After all, those who write for print publications get paid in dollars per word, not pennies. Serious business owners regularly pay the same for their own written content, both in-house and from contract workers.

    If you decide to become a gold miner, and keep looking for gold in a place that's been mined out, don't blame your luck, skill or someone else. Blame yourself for stubbornly refusing to look elsewhere.

    HTH

    Vince Runza
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    • Profile picture of the author AHayes183
      Originally Posted by Vince Runza Online View Post

      Frankly, I was tempted to edit your post, pointing out the mistakes in grammar and punctuation, just to prove that your opinion of your own work might be unjustified. But that would have been pointless.
      Vince Runza
      Yes, that would have been pointless - yet you still couldn´t help yourself.

      As for the rest of your post, you do make a very good point. When looking for clients, I advertise in many different places and don´t solely rely on Warrior forums. However, having said this, there are hundreds of people on this forum who are more than willing to pay decent rates for well written articles and other content. I know this because many of my large clients actually come from here and still do on occasion.

      There is a large market for low priced content and it does play an important role for many internet marketers and online businesses; but, that isn´t to say that Warrior should completely rule out higher priced providers. My initial concern was that we shouldn´t allow Warrior Forum´s content marketplace to be monopolized - if thats even possible.

      Antony.
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  • Profile picture of the author Raydal
    I understood the complaint in the OP to be that no negative
    comments were allowed in a WSO or WFH section except
    you were a customer. There's a rule to that effect the last
    time I looked.

    So whatever the opinion of the poster you're not suppose to
    write negative posts except you bought the product or
    service and so have a 'right' to rate the product.

    -Ray Edwards
    Signature
    The most powerful and concentrated copywriting training online today bar none! Autoresponder Writing Email SECRETS
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    • Profile picture of the author AHayes183
      Originally Posted by Raydal View Post

      I understood the complaint in the OP to be that no negative
      comments were allowed in a WSO or WFH section except
      you were a customer. There's a rule to that effect the last
      time I looked.

      So whatever the opinion of the poster you're not suppose to
      write negative posts except you bought the product or
      service and so have a 'right' to rate the product.

      -Ray Edwards
      That´s precisely it Ray.
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  • Profile picture of the author John Durham
    Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

    Hi Warriors,

    Yesterday I was taking a look through some of my old threads on the Warriors for Hire section and came across a single comment on my thread that said "price too high". Needless to say, that didn´t quite please me and I personally recon that this sort of behavior should not be tolerated. There are many venerable companies that provide excellent services on this forum and people who wont be using the services shouldn´t make irrelevant or negative comments.

    On this note, it made me think that we shouldn´t allow Warrior to deteriorate to a level where quality content at a price of 2-3c a word is considered to be expensive but rather - an accepted rate for the well written. There is a market for content priced at all levels; however Warrior is home to individuals at all of these levels and the various sections should reflect this. I know that there are many professional writers on here who have stopped advertising on Warrior because of this and I think that it is a pity.

    Just my opinion and I am sure that many of you will agree.

    Antony.
    I used to have a songwriting job for years... I was a fulltime staff writer. So I totally appreciate what you are saying about selling out...

    I like George Wrights Philosophy... He has a cool totally awesome wso about getting 50 cents per word. Amazing, I wish I could find the link but if anyone has it. I would highly suggest checking it out. Worked for me.
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    • Profile picture of the author Justin Jordan
      I know I'm not going to hire a carpenter to rebuild my deck. I mean, twenty bucks an hour? I can measure and hammer nails, right? Those guys are just greedy and try to soak me. I mean, what skills could they possibly have to justify their ridiculous rates? Anybody can do that.
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      • Profile picture of the author AndrewCavanagh
        Price is only relevant when you compare it to the value you deliver.

        If your writing produces less than 1 cent an article and you're charging 3 cents an article then your service is a ripoff for the buyer.

        If your writing produces $1,000 an article and you charge $500 an article then it's a bargain for the buyer.

        As a writer you'll be able to massively increase your income if you focus on delivering value instead of focusing on the price you charge.

        In other words by focusing on the price you charge you're making your service a commodity.

        When you focus on delivering value you turn yourself into a partner in profit creation...a far more lucrative business model for you.

        Kindest regards,
        Andrew Cavanagh
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  • Profile picture of the author SpaceAge
    A vital part of marketing services is about educating clients. As some fellow warriors have mentioned, some people come with the idea of finding really cheap deals. I've always found that the best way to go is to define expectations - no matter what you are doing. Tell people exactly what you are offering, & why you are charging what you are charging. Some will like it, some won't. You preferably want to work with the first group, rather than the second.
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  • Profile picture of the author tpw
    Originally Posted by AHayes183 View Post

    came across a single comment on my thread that said "price too high". Needless to say, that didn´t quite please me and I personally recon that this sort of behavior should not be tolerated. There are many venerable companies that provide excellent services on this forum and people who wont be using the services shouldn´t make irrelevant or negative comments.

    "Price too high" is not a reflection of your service, but rather, it is more indicative of the state of mind of the person who wrote it.

    If the thread is a WSO, you have recourse and can have the comment removed by the mods, if the person who left the content has never bought your services. Technically, the only people allowed to comment on WSO's are those asking questions and those commenting on their purchase of your WSO.

    I am not sure whether these rules also apply to Warrior Services or not.

    As a service provider, you have the full right and capability to charge whatever rates best suit your service.

    But do be aware that if you are selling your services in the WF marketplace, your audience is mostly people looking for bargain basement prices. Other forum marketplaces are filled with people who expect to pay even lower prices than those at the WF.

    If you expect to get prices more consistent with what you feel your work is worth, you will have to sell your services to the larger IM community off of the forum.

    I have sold ghost writing for years -- although I discontinued that services a few months ago. I was able to get $40 an article in large volume (for the work of third-party writers) and $100 an article for articles written by me, in smaller volume. I have successfully charged and received up to $500 an article, for articles written by me, in even lower volumes.

    I was able to get those higher rates, because I marketed exclusively outside the forum marketplaces. 98% of my customer base had never heard of the Warrior Forum.

    People are willing to pay more for writing, when the perceived quality is much higher than the work produced by people who charge much lower prices.

    But it is up to you to show them why your work is worth more than they are currently paying. If you can convince your prospects that you are worth the extra money they are going to pay to get you to write for them, you can get consistently higher prices for the work you create.

    Remember, you are in the drivers' seat on your pricing, and unless you are willing to tell your prospects what they should pay to get you to work for them, then you will never be able to get the higher rates for your work that you desire.
    Signature
    Bill Platt, Oklahoma USA, PlattPublishing.com
    Publish Coloring Books for Profit (WSOTD 7-30-2015)
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    • Profile picture of the author Shirlyn
      It is true writing is a skill not just a waste of time because good content can help you to get good reputation over search engine and site content will also beneficial to gather required traffic.
      Signature
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  • Profile picture of the author ArticleGrinder
    I'm just afraid the accepted price rate might dip to 0.5 cents per word or lower as more and more people hop on the IM bandwagon and try to offer their services in article writing...
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