Tell him not to ask again, that if he does, you will take another job where you don’t get bothered to change the agreed upon rate, that others will pay you $18. I think he’s the type that will back down with this. Also, tell your agency he’s asked you three times. This is to protect yourself, in case he badmouths you in the future because he gets pissed off at you standing firm.

"NO, I don't lower my rates for anyone. In fact, you are due for a rate increase."

Tell him to go to his mortgage company and ask them toblower his monthly payment and then you start looking for a new job, give notice, leave, and never look back.

Anonymous wrote:MB here. Please look for another job. I would kill for a sitter like you and would gladly pay you at least $20. You deserve better.

+1

MB here. Please look for another job. I would kill for a sitter like you and would gladly pay you at least $20. You deserve better.

Can you talk to the agency? Ask them for suggestions on how to help him understand this is not a barter system.

Anonymous wrote:Yes, I would definitely discuss this matter w/the agency while it is ongoing.

And I would let this man know (in no uncertain terms!) that my babysitting rate will no longer be up for discussion.

It is a set rate & not open for negotiation at all.
If they cannot afford you - then it might be time to find someone new.

Good luck!

+ 1

Yes, I would definitely discuss this matter w/the agency while it is ongoing.

And I would let this man know (in no uncertain terms!) that my babysitting rate will no longer be up for discussion.

It is a set rate & not open for negotiation at all.
If they cannot afford you - then it might be time to find someone new.

Good luck!

$18/hr is a huge bargain as it is!

If he’s from a culture that barters, counter offer a higher rate than you charge now LOL

Anonymous wrote:I am not and will not be willing to lower my rate (said firmly, not angrily). You could add that you actually make more more per hour with other families or that other nannies that you know actually charge $20+/hr, but I think the first sentence, said firmly with direct eye contact, should suffice. Also, if you are honestly concerned that the agency would drop you, speak directly with them prior to giving notice.

Or, instead of giving notice of quitting, if it ever came to that, give notice of a rate increase and give them at least a one month notice. I would also let the agency know of your plan.

I am not and will not be willing to lower my rate (said firmly, not angrily). You could add that you actually make more more per hour with other families or that other nannies that you know actually charge $20+/hr, but I think the first sentence, said firmly with direct eye contact, should suffice. Also, if you are honestly concerned that the agency would drop you, speak directly with them prior to giving notice.

Say “No. Please do not ever ask me to lower my rate again.” Don’t smile or treat it lightly. Then go back to being your usual happy self.

I babysit 10-15hrs for a family and the Dad keeps asking me to lower my rates and I’m kind of over it! The first time he asked I said no. The second time, I said no. Now he asked again! He’s always complaining about the other sitters (I only work weekends) and how they aren’t reliable or professional etc and that I’m so much more expensive (probably because I’m legal, on time, experienced, professional, speak English etc). I like the job and the girls are so sweet, but I need to find a way to tell him NO so that he stops asking me to lower my rate. He’s from another culture where bartering is normal, but I’m really over it and want him to stop! I can’t just quit because they were referred to me by the owner of an agency I really want to continue working with, but it’s so awkward!! Like you can see I do a good job and I’m better than your other sitters, why can’t you just value me and pay my rate??? I’m not even talking extortion prices, it’s $18/hr for two kids!