I think everyone- hobbyists and providers included- are feeling the weight of the economy bearing down on them. And if you watch the news diligently, you know it is going to get far worse before it gets any better.
I dont like anyone to tell anyone else how to do biz, what to charge, how to work, etc. But I do and can fully understand when some ladies- especially good professional ones- reduce and slash prices because of this economy. I am guilty of it myself. I am known for giving exceptional discounts to veterans, seniors and also college students. I also give special rates to those who see me often. It is not only a part of advertising, marketing yourself and your biz in order to get the money, but also about competition- there are so many of us and we continue to reproduce in great numbers and more ladies are entering the biz because of the economy. If I have to cut my rates I will- but only to the point where I am comfortable.
I do agree, to a point, that if someone doesnt have the funds- then they shouldnt hobby because the hobby is a luxury- but at the same time- if my biz is running too slow and not as lucrative as I need it to be- then as with most successful businesses and in order to remain in business- I may have to cut corners and offer some incredible discounts.
They key, I have realized is this- as a reputable provider- no matter how low you end up going- the service MUST equal that to the service quaility you offered at your regular rate. Because when things are better- you want to maintain and be able to count on that reputation.
You cannot or in my opinion at least- should not- crimp on quality just because you chose to offer a special discount. If you do, then what is the point of those gents coming back to see you? And word of mouth spreads quickly too, men talk, we know this. Bad publicity spreads faster and greater than good publicity.
KKA
XOXO
Originally Posted by KlassyKelliAnn
Wonderful post, KKA
I agree with everything that you said. Here are the points:
Everyone has to do what it takes to keep their business afloat. But the problem is not feeling cheated for having to go so low. And also, the level of customer you have to deal with at certain price points. These are the things that send providers to the point of burning out. Not the acts themselves, just the feeling of selling yourself short.
Hobbying is a luxury. I agree wholeheartedly. But it should be for us as well as them. The question we should ask ourselves as ladies is are we letting them know that with our business model, or are we treating ourselves like Burger King drive-thru?
The competition is stiff. The majority of ladies that are turning to this business do so for economic reasons, but as Cpalmson mentioned it only affects it at the low end. There is also an exodus of clients turning toward this industry for the wrong reasons as well. Not judging, just saying that we all start somewhere. This industry should be a stepping stone for true economic stability and success. Every lady should have a 3-year plan just to start out with. Only haters don't want you to do better than you have been.
@ PJ. Price has no correlation to quality. I agree. There are ladies at every price point who love what they do, and command respect from their patrons. Respect of one's self should always be evident no matter what you charge, or where you advertise.
Great thread!