Sometimes in life we really need something. A lawyer, a mechanic, a doctor, a therapist. A lot of times we can't afford them. We may think they charge ludricrous fees, and we don't even see a solution because we don't have the money. We visit their web page, go to the fees section and make a decision based on that. We either got the money or we don't. Case closed.

Some of us may even feel resentful, we feel denied, because we can't gain access to them, and resent their fees and lifestyle. But we wouldn't if we could afford them.

I am going to tell you where the balance point lies. First of all, it is important to pay people what they are worth! Life is about balance, and doctors, lawyers, mechanics have spent years in school for what they do, and they should be paid what they are worth.

But you also need some dam good help!  So how the heck do you get that fabulous practitioner, mechanic, or a lawyer  for less? By first understanding that these people deserve their fees. Just as you would deserve something that you have earned. Empathy is a powerful thing dear ones.

I am going to literally tell you what you can do so that you can get the laywer, doctor, web guy or mechanic to reduce their fees by half or more, and they will do it gladly (if they are smart).

1.) You call them and state you really need "xyz" done, and that they are the only practitioner, lawyer, doctor you WANT, because you feel you have a RAPPORT with them , you LIKE them, and they UNDERSTAND your needs. And tell them that they should be paid what they are worth, because you are a business owner yourself, or your partner is, or a friend (empathize), so you understand. But money is just tight at the moment. Let them know you value them.

2.) Ask them for a fee that you can afford and give them something in return. It's important to appreciate and honor human beings. The taking and receiving should be balanced. Undercutting hard working lawyers or doctors is not a FAIR exchange. We need to be honorable and fair in our dealings with others. My advice is to offer something else in lieu of the money you can't pay. Something they WILL value, to balance, to make things fair.

3.) Tell them that if they reduce their fees, and you get better, or they solve your problem, that you will give them testimonials and actively refer them.

Random side note: No, not all people actively refer, some do, some don't. Why? people are caught up in their own life, in their own world, and helping YOU out isn't on the top of their list. Human nature. Also most people have to ask people for testimonials, again people rarely volunteer.

AND BE SINCERE. if you have no intention of putting in a good word for them, then don't bother. You see a business is run on 2 things, referals and testimonials. And both are worth there weight in gold to a savvy business owner. They also carry further than fees, and smart business owners know it!

People love to be helpful, and love to be told how great they are, and everyone loves empathy and appreciation.  So if you want that perfect lawyer, doctor, etc, then learn to ask for what you want instead of just assuming you can't have it because you can't afford it. 

I needed a savvy copywriter to do something for me I couldn't afford. I followed the instructions I have outlined for you, and I got what I wanted. 

Other helpful hint:

1.) When doing a deal approach with confidence and an offer they can't refuse. Do NOT play the "poor me, I have no money card", aka the GUILT card. Make people want to help you, not feel forced to. OR you want them but don't need them approach.

Lindsay Tietz, Homeopathic Doctor
Owner  Intention to Heal
Proudly Serving the Danforth Area Directly