When I started my first job as a writer in 2015, I earned INR 4,500 ($54) a month. Writing 2000 words daily. For my first freelance gig, I charged $0.0036 per word.
Many writers start this way—undercharging because they don’t know any better.
In general, $0.10 per word is considered a reasonable starting point.
(But, of course, this is not set in stone. And a lot depends on where your client is based. If you’re based in India, for instance, $0.10 equals INR 8-9. Very few companies would pay that much. So, you have to consider these factors as well. And ideally, we’d want to work with clients from countries/regions that pay well.)
That said, the real question isn’t how much you should charge now. It’s how much you should charge next.
The 3 “yes” framework
Chris Do, founder of The Futur, shared an interesting insight in one of his videos: If you’ve gotten three consecutive yeses for your price, you’re likely undercharging.
Think about your last three clients. Did they accept your rate immediately? Did they negotiate? Their response tells you if it’s time for an increase.
Increasing your rates
When you decide to increase rates, there’s no fixed rule for “by how much.” Some writers add 10%. Others go for 20%. Some double their rates.
What do you think is an ideal increment based on your expertise, years of experience, and industry standards?
The process is simple: Increase your rate by a margin you’re comfortable with (after an assessment).
Test it with new clients. If you get three quick yeses again, repeat the cycle.
Handling resistance—the “no”
If you start hearing nos (especially after a significant increase), it doesn’t necessarily mean your new rate is too high. It often indicates you’re not communicating your value effectively.
This is when you revisit your portfolio. Make it showcase your worth better. How?
Add case studies showing specific results. Include more social proof. Optimize how you present your services…
The non-per-word pricing
This approach works regardless of your pricing model.
Whether you charge per project, per article, or hourly, the principle remains: Test higher rates until you find resistance, then improve how you communicate value.
The cycle continues
Keep testing higher rates with new clients. Keep improving how you present your value. Keep learning and getting better at your key skills.
Your rate today shouldn’t be your rate 12 months from now.
Every established writer charging premium rates started somewhere lower. The difference?
They consistently pushed their rates higher while building their ability to deliver and communicate value.
