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.”

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

In this insightful episode, Jessica Dumas breaks down the true value of public speaking and why it’s more than just a hobby—it’s a powerful industry. Jessica highlights how public speaking can help entrepreneurs and thought leaders build authority, promote their businesses, and create additional income streams.

She explains the profound impact of storytelling and inspiration, showing how sharing your experiences can help others see what’s possible. Jessica also emphasizes that public speaking isn’t reserved for elected leaders or those with large audiences—it’s for anyone ready to share their message and make a lasting impression.

For those looking to transition from honorariums to commanding premium fees, Jessica walks through the mindset shift required to recognize the value of expertise. She also shares practical advice on setting speaking fees and scaling up as experience grows.

What Jessica Covers:

• Reframing Public Speaking: Why speaking is a $1.9 billion industry (and growing annually at 4.1%).
• Inspiration Through Speaking: The power of storytelling to inspire and create meaningful connections.
• Building Credibility: How having an opinion and sharing it boldly makes you a thought leader.
• From Honorariums to Premium Fees: The journey to valuing your expertise and commanding higher fees.
• How to Set Your Speaking Fee: A starting point and guide for scaling your rates over time.

Key Points from the Episode:

• Public speaking is a powerful way to inspire and build trust with an audience.
• It’s a tool to establish authority, generate premium opportunities, and grow your business.
• Starting with a baseline fee (e.g., $1,000) and increasing it as your expertise grows helps you position yourself as a professional.
• Present your fee with confidence—it’s a service and a reflection of your value.

Quick Fee Tips:

• Start small and scale up based on experience and audience size.
• Industry standards, such as rates from the Speakers Bureau of Canada ($7,500–$20,000), can guide you.
• Approach your speaking fees as a business item—structured and professional.

Connect with Jessica Dumas: Jessica invites listeners to connect with her for more insights and opportunities:

• Follow Jessica on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes content: @jessicadumas.ca
• Interested in professional growth or mindset coaching? Learn about her services here: Work with Jessica.

Call to Action: Jessica encourages listeners to see public speaking as a pathway to deeper connections, personal growth, and professional success. Whether you’re starting out or looking to refine your speaking career, Jessica can help you clarify your goals, amplify your voice, and step into premium opportunities. Reach out today!