Find out how client feels about quoted price?

[jackiepeeler]

I'm negotiating for a project and gave the client a per page rate, as requested. He didn't say anything about the rate, but then asked if I would do a paid sample of the work. I agreed but now I'm wondering, since this request came after I submitted my quote, if he wants a sample because the rate was higher than he expected and he wants to see if I'm worth it. Total as I quoted would still be under the amount he budgeted for that project, but that did include some extras that were only loosely defined. 

My feeling is I don't want him to be uncomfortable with the price and might come down a little if he's unhappy. But this is something I'm not good with. Would you all advise feeling him out to get to a place of mutual comfort? 

[petra_r · Accepted solution]

No, leave it be. Paid trials are not about price, they are about best fit.

If the client was concerned about your bid they would not have asked you for a paid trial. It means the client is impressed with your bid and comfortable with your price.

Leave well alone.

[colettelewis]

IMO, your price is your price (don't forget clients read these pages too). Do the sample at your price, and see what happens after that. It sounds as if your client might not be happy at whatever price you charge, so stick to your guns. It's not whether he is comfortable, but whether you are! It's your JSS on the line . . .