Hi Andy
Is 50/hr that low? I know it isn't the US rate, but getting even 30 USD/hr here is hard (that's why I'm trying to focus more internationally and thus the need to do portfolio work as much of my apps are in the local app store).
Is 50/hr that low? I know it isn't the US rate, but getting even 30 USD/hr here is hard (that's why I'm trying to focus more internationally and thus the need to do portfolio work as much of my apps are in the local app store).
Keep in mind that people will naturally appraise your abilities on your perceived value. If you are coming in 50% lower than the competition, they instantly think that you are worth at least 50% less.
Something that seems to work fairly well for me is I have a base rate of $85 (for rails or UX dev) and then offer discounts depending on the duration (in months):
2 - 3: $80
3 - 9: $75
9 - 12: $70
This tells them that I'm "worth" $85/hr but because they are saving me money by reducing downtime, I'm passing that savings on to them. They feel like they are getting a good deal and I get longer contracts.