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What's the average hourly rate for a senior public relations / media relations service provider? 0comments
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  • PR Place
  • thread starter published in 2008-12-14 15:38:35 
    quote 1 floor
  • Question:
    Been charging $100 an hour for the past seven years and haven't increase my rates for PR services. The cost of doing business for me has gone up by leaps and bounds especially the cost of healthcare and the cost of database subscriptions -- like Bacons Luce Burelles PR Newswire and such. I'm thinking that $150 to $200 is typical for an independent and senior PR representative (been working since the mid 80s). What's your take on what the average rate should be for PR services now - 7 years later.

    Answer:
    Yes. The challenge is having enough billable time and to balance the needed research subscriptions networking relationships etc. especially if you are not with a firm.

    If you provide specialized services in a market that needs your skills and experience then you should raise your rates to offset inflation healthcare and overhead. My lawyers CPA and other professional services companies raise their rates every 2-3 years. That is more than I do my clients would leave if I sent an increase rate letter every two years!

    Currently I charge $200-$250 an hour for branding product/web usability and strategic marketing consulting. I have 17 years experience and live in San Francisco.

    We have rates for design and production that are much lower ($75 - $150). But it is common to charge higher rates for Fortune 500 companies than small businesses and start-ups.

    Look at your competition in your area and see what they are charging also.

    Other Answers:
    PR like lawyers should be based on quality and experience (previous results) If your results are there your customers shouls be willing to pay a higher rate. I would pay a rookie no more than $75/hr while a seasoned pro could command $200 to $250 an hour easily.

    However at the higher rates I better see some results.

    Averyage salaries vary depending on location and experience of course. You can check your state Department of Labor website for prevailing wage rates (which are relatively low end) or check wage calculators on various career websites like hotjobs or monster.

    Seems like you are charging well into the 'high end' of the market. You should consider increasing your rates gradually each year to cover costs of doing business rather that such a steep (50-100%) increase.

    Or you could raise your rates charging higher fees for new clients to 'test the waters' and offer a loyalty discount for existing clients so you don't lose them and gradually increase rates over time.
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