How to price your Freelancing Service As A Beginner (Complete Guide)

Introduction 

One of the biggest challenges beginners face in freelancing is pricing their services. Many new freelancers either charge too low because of fear or overprice without understanding the market. If you price your services correctly, you can attract quality clients, build confidence, and grow your income steadily.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to price your freelancing services as a beginner, even if you’re starting with zero experience and only a mobile phone.

Why Pricing Is So Confusing for Beginners

When you’re new, questions like these are very common:

• “What if the client says I’m too expensive?”
• “Should I work for free to get experience?”
• “How much are others charging?”
• “Am I worth this price?”

The truth is, pricing is not about luck, it’s about strategy. Every successful freelancer once started as a beginner — and they learned pricing step by step.

Step 1: Understand Your Skill Level Honestly

Before setting any price, ask yourself:

• Am I a complete beginner, or do I have basic skills?
• Can I deliver quality work consistently?
• Have I practiced enough to solve client problems?

If you are just starting, it’s okay to price slightly lower — but never undervalue yourself. Low pricing should be temporary, not permanent.

Step 2: Research the Market (Very Important)

You should never guess prices.

Use platforms like:

• Fiverr
• Upwork
• PeoplePerHour
• Freelancer.com

Search for your service (SEO, graphic design, content writing, video editing, etc.) and note:

• Beginner prices
• Average prices
• Top seller prices

This research helps you understand:

• What clients expect
• What beginners usually charge
• How you can position yourself

Step 3: Choose the Right Pricing Model

As a beginner, you can use one of these pricing models:

1. Hourly Pricing

Good for tasks like:

• SEO audits
• Virtual assistance
• Consulting

Example: $5–$10 per hour (beginner range)

2. Project-Based Pricing (Best for Beginners)

Clients prefer fixed prices.

Example:

• Logo design: $10–$30
• Blog writing: $10–$25 per article
• Basic SEO service: $30–$50

This method feels simple and safe for new freelancers.

3. Package Pricing (Recommended)

Offer 3 packages:

• Basic
• Standard
• Premium

This increases your chances of getting orders and looks professional.

Step 4: Start Low — But Smartly

Starting with a lower price is okay, but only if:

• You clearly define what the client will get
• You limit revisions

You increase prices after some projects

Never work for free unless:

• It’s your own portfolio project
• You’re learning a new skill

Free work for random clients usually attracts bad clients.

Step 5: Factor in Time, Effort & Tools

Ask yourself:

• How many hours will this task take?
• Will I use paid tools?
• Is the work complex or simple?

Your price should reflect:

• Your time
• Your effort
• Your learning investment

Even mobile freelancers invest time and data — that matters.

Step 6: Don’t Compete Only on Price

Many beginners think:

“If I’m cheaper, clients will come.”

This is wrong.

Instead, compete on:

• Clear communication
• Fast response
• Honest delivery
• Value-added tips

Clients love freelancers who solve problems, not just cheap workers.

Step 7: Increase Your Prices Gradually

Once you:

• Complete 5–10 projects
• Get positive feedback
• Improve speed and quality
• Increase your prices slowly.

Example:

• First month: $10
• Next month: $15
• After reviews: $25+

This is how freelancers grow sustainably.

Common Pricing Mistakes Beginners Must Avoid

• Charging too low for too long
• Copying top sellers’ prices without experience
• Accepting every low-budget client
• Not setting boundaries
• Being afraid to say “No”

Avoid these mistakes, and freelancing becomes much easier.

Final Advice for Beginners

Pricing is a skill, not a one-time decision.

Start simple, learn from experience, improve your value, and increase prices confidently. Clients don’t pay you for being a beginner — they pay you for results.

Remember:

You are not charging for time.

You are charging for skills, effort, and problem-solving.

Conclusion

Learning how to price your freelancing services as a beginner can change your entire freelancing journey. With the right mindset, research, and strategy, even beginners can earn fairly — using only a mobile phone.

Start today, stay consistent, and grow step by step.