As a client, what is your view on hidden earnings?

[#1]

Quick Q: As a client, when a freelancer's earnings are private/unviewable, what do you think? Is it a deterrant to hiring/sending an invitation to submit a proposal?

I've been considering hiding my earnings, as some of my clients receive a lower rate due to being long-term (and I have solid reasons for other fluctuations in earnings from client to client). Currently I'm on the fence about it.

Thanks for any help.

[#2]

Good question! Following to hear responses.

[#3]

Following 

[#4]

As a client, hidden earnings can sometimes be a deterrent, raising questions about transparency and trust. However, many clients focus more on a freelancer’s skills, portfolio, and reviews. To mitigate potential concerns, freelancers should ensure their profiles are detailed and highlight their strengths. Clear communication about the reasons for hidden earnings in proposals can help build trust. Consider a trial period with hidden earnings to assess its impact. Ultimately, balancing privacy and transparency, while clearly showcasing your value and expertise, can attract clients effectively.

[#5]

I don't really care about the previous earnings of a Freelancer when hiring, and I hire often. I always display my budget, so it is up to FL to agree or not to agree, but if you agree you stick to it - this is called "integrity". 

[#6]

The OP didn't mention trying anything that requires an integrity comment. She asked a straightforward question.

[#7]

Oh well, I did answer her question, very straightforward. But thank you for coming and commenting. 

[#8]

In many cases hidden earnings mean that freelancer worked for cheap before but want more money this time. Most of clients dont like such tricky peoples. Always be honest.

[#9]

Yes, I agree. Many clients do not like hidden earnings. Part of it is because why hide anything? What's the point? Are you dodging something? Hiding from the tax people? Or hiding the fact that you and your friends scammed some jobs to give you a profile?

Clients want to know the truth, and when you start out hiding something, they lose trust.

[#10]

one reason to hide your earnings would be to bid at the rate you think you deserve even though you had projects made at a much lower. For example: If you believe you deserve a rate of 60$/hour but the previous projects were on a 30$/hour rate. (many reasons why that would be) Most of the clients won't give you 60$/hour as you deserve. Because they know you can be desperate and will accept a much lower rate, or they think is weird and it's a scam, or other reasons. 

[#11]

Freelancers need to charge for their skills. If you are one of those who radically reduces your fees, as $60 - $30 would be, this is the path you set for yourself. The clients are going to think you are playing some kind of game. 

This is precisely why I tell people to not work for pennies, because it always comes back to bite you. The clients on cheap projects tend to be a problem, and then you can't be honest about your income. Don't you think it makes clients wonder why you are hiding your earend fees? Of course, it does.

I doubt you would have your success if you had hidden your fees.

No one should take a job for nothing. It's one thing to create a discount of 10% or 15% when you are new, and quite another to work for nothing and then hide it. 

[#12]

It's totally upto you if you wants to hide your earning or not cause your previous rate with other client doesnt effect new jobs as every job have there own requirments and circumstance . it's only about your skills and level of experience you have this is what your client looks for , if you are eligble for a higher pay rate they will always pay you good . 

i would suggest to keep your earning openining at it gives you legitemcy and your profile a new exposure with truth