If you want something, make it undeniably clear.
When dealing with clients, both new and old, I have a constant dialog in my head:
“Should I ask for ___? No, that’s too much. No, they’ll think I’m selfish”
…”But, I deserve it! But, I’m going to do a great job! But, I’m worth it!”
Whether it’s a characteristic of being female (as chronicled in the brilliant book by Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In), or simply a lack of confidence in my abilities (which can happen to any gender), it’s a constant struggle.
However, in recent interactions with clients I’ve been pushing myself to ask for what I want. And being explicitly clear why I deserve it. 9 times out of 10, they’re happy to accommodate.
At the end of the day, the client wants a design that WORKS for them (i.e. gaining new followers, increasing sales, create brand recognition, etc), so if you’re the one that can provide those results you deserve to be paid for it!
And that way, everyone wins 🙂