The one I’m talking about is part of a subscription website that allows members to share information about types of writing they do and the rates they’re paid. And then they show the range.

I’m making this example up, but let’s say under “business blog posts” the rate might range from $10 per post to $500 per post. Or maybe “trade magazine articles” might range from 10-cents/word to $2/word. So I’m hoping the lower rates are really old, LOL!

Good observation, Paula.

Personally, I’ve never seen any explanation as to how these guides come to that particular price range. Is someone guessing? Are they actually interviewing writers? Clients? What about writers who specialize? Are they included? Where are these numbers coming from?

There’s one online price guide I know some of that still includes some rates that are at least 10 years old. I know because they came from me. Anyone peddling a rate guide should update it every couple of years to purge outdated info, but that would require tracking entries and putting in a bit more effort.

Good system, Anne. That 20 percent may sometimes just feel too high, so it’s good to adjust as you see fit.