MURAL TIP #17 | Mastering the Art of Negotiation during Mural & Art Projects

If there is one thing that you should learn to do as an entrepreneur, it is the art of negotiation. As a freelancer working in the creative industry, I’ve had to negotiate almost every deal I’ve entered. If I hadn’t learned to ask for my worth, I would probably still be doing work for next to nothing.

Today I want to help you earn more money for all the hard work you put into your craft. Here are some tips for negotiating your prices:

Determine your cost of materials and time

You need to consider the cost of materials, equipment, and the amount of time you will spend creating the mural or artwork. This will be a great starting point for a fair price for your work.

Research market rates

Look at the rates other muralists and/or artists are charging in your area to get an idea of what is considered a fair price. Depending on which country or state you live in makes a big difference in what people are willing to pay for artwork. Is it a huge corporation or a small family - bigger entities will often require more back and forth which equals more time you’ll have to put into it.

Be clear about your services

It’s important that your client knows what services you are offering, such as preparation, clean-up, and touch-ups. You can use these items to show that your work is worth more. Make sure you remember to include these in your quote.

Communicate the value you bring

This one might be the most important. Don’t just say what you can do, explain the unique qualities and skills you bring to the project and how they add value to the mural. Clients can hire anyone, but only you have the unique skills and qualities that the client is looking for. Sell yourself as the amazing artist you are!

Be flexible

Be aware that negotiation is totally normal. Both parties want what’s best for them, and this can be a win-win situation. So, be willing to negotiate and find a mutually beneficial agreement. You can even consider offering discounts for repeat business or larger projects.

Get everything in writing

Once you have agreed on a price, make sure to get a written agreement that outlines the terms of the project, including the price, timeline, and any other important details. Contracts are super important so each party is aware of what they are paying for and agreeing to. This makes for much less awkward conversations later.

By following these tips, you can negotiate mural prices effectively and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your work. It's important to remember that clear communication and a professional approach can go a long way in building a positive working relationship with your clients.

I talk about all of this and more in my mural courses HERE, or simply sign up below for my newsletter and to get more tips and tricks sent right to you!