Give Yourself a Yearly Raise

Are you making the same amount per lesson this year as you did last year? Do you get stressed out when you think about raising your rates? Here are a few ideas that are meant to motivate you. Every “real” job I’ve ever had gave raises at least annually. Why should teaching music be any different?

The $1 an Hour Raise

I give myself a $1 per hour raise at the beginning of every school year. My policy states: “The teacher reserves the right to raise fees at the beginning of each new academic year (September 1st),” and I exercise that right! This past year it worked out to $2 more per student per month. Parents are much happier when their monthly tuition increases by $2 per year than when, after five years, it jumps up $10 per year because the teacher finally got fed up with being underpaid and raised her rates.

Making More per Lesson by Teaching Less

How many weeks per year do you teach? Are you happy with this amount? Would you like to take another week or two off next year? This situation doesn’t apply to everyone, but if it applies to you, then you are in the perfect position to give yourself a raise! If you charge monthly tuition, then all you need to do is charge the same amount you charged before, just promise one or two fewer lessons per student per year. Parents won’t be upset by an increase in the monthly payment, and you get to take a vacation (or a sick day).

More Ideas

Wendy Stevens has many additional ideas on her blog. She also goes over how to set your rates in the first place, how to calculate inflation, and much more. If you like my blog, you will love hers.