150. The Art of Negotiating Speaking Fees

In this episode, we’re diving into the art of confident negotiation—because, let’s be honest, knowing your worth and asking for it unapologetically is a game-changer. Whether you’re struggling to set your fees, handle client objections, or just want to level up your money mindset, this episode is for YOU.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

1. How to Research Your Value: Tips on assessing your market worth and confidently justifying your fees.
2. Master Objection Scripts: Learn how to handle tough questions like, “Why are you so expensive?” or “We don’t have that budget.”
3. Step into Your Power: Why it’s time to stop playing small and unapologetically state your price.
4. The Energy of Negotiation: Why neediness repels clients and how to approach negotiations with confidence.
5. Practice Makes Perfect: Get comfortable saying your fee out loud, dealing with rejections, and negotiating from a place of abundance.

🔥 Key Takeaways:

• Your Energy Speaks Volumes: Negotiation is more about energy than numbers. Neediness is repelling; confidence is magnetic.
• Be OK with “No”: Not every client is your client. Let go of desperation and trust that more opportunities are coming.
• Negotiate Creatively: If the budget doesn’t meet your fee, explore non-monetary value adds like promotion or collaboration.
• Practice and Prepare: Say your fee out loud, role-play objections, and stay calm during negotiations.

💬 Quotes to Remember:

• “Pick a price, state your offer. Then ask, ‘Who do I make the invoice out to?’”
• “You’re not here to be someone’s lifeline. You’re here to provide value—and that has a price.”
• “Your worth isn’t tied to one client’s budget. There are plenty of clients who’ll pay your fee.”

Poll Questions

1. How confident do you feel stating your fees out loud?

   • I’m a pricing queen 👑
   • I’m working on it
   • Pricing? Terrifying 😬

2. What’s the hardest part of negotiating for you?

   • Stating my price
   • Handling objections
   • Dealing with rejection

3. Would you trade part of your fee for additional exposure (e.g., social posts, email blasts)?

   • Yes, exposure is valuable!
   • Maybe, depends on the client
   • No, cash only! 💵

Connect with Jessica:

• Follow me on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes content: @jessicadumas.ca
• Explore ways to work with me, including 1-on-1 Speaker Mindset Coaching: Work with Jessica

Sponsor Shoutouts:

• A special thank you to our sponsor, Johnston Group Inc., for their continued support. Learn more about them at Johnston Group Inc..
• Use code "JESSICADUMAS" for 15% off your nixit purchase at this nixit.com site
• Don’t forget to try my new fav skincare BBTallow! Use for 100% guarantee @bbtallowb on Instagram and www.bbtallow.ca for shopping! Use code Bbjessica15 for 15% off