Why retainers work
Retainers can smooth income and reduce constant selling, but only if scope is strict. A vague retainer is just a subscription to your own suffering.
Retainer formula
Start with expected monthly hours, multiply by your hourly rate, then add a margin for meetings, reporting, and priority access. Define what is included and what costs extra.
Scope rules
- Monthly deliverables.
- Response time.
- Revision limits.
- Unused hour policy.
- Extra work rate.