Asking for the rate
Use when a requirement does not state a rate.
Subject: Rate for [Job title] - [Req ID]
Hi [First name],
What is the rate range for [Job title], and is it C2C or W2? I would like to confirm that before I submit [Consultant name].
[Your name]Responding to a rate that is too low
Stay factual and propose a number.
Subject: Re: Rate for [Job title]
Hi [First name],
Thanks for the details. [Consultant name] has [X] years of [specific skill] and the market for this skill is [competitive]. At [$X/hr] I cannot submit, but at [$Y/hr] I can. If there is room in the range, I can send the profile today.
[Your name]Aligning the consultant’s expectation
Use with your own consultant before marketing them.
Hi [Consultant name],
To market you well, I need a target rate and a minimum. For C2C, please confirm your minimum after your own overhead. For W2, tell me your target and your benefits needs. I will quote within that range and check before submitting.
[Your name]Tips that make these work
Small habits decide whether a vendor answers.
- Know your minimum margin before you negotiate.
- Compare C2C and W2 economics before you quote.
- Put agreed rates in writing.
- Avoid revealing your markup.
Mistakes to avoid
These are the usual reasons an email gets archived.
- Submitting without a rate and then discovering it is too low.
- Quoting a rate without checking the consultant’s minimum.
- Negotiating on the phone without a written confirmation.
Keep the record in one place
Whatever you send, log it. MatchWire records submissions against the candidate and job, with the vendor contact and rates on each one, so anyone on the team can see what was sent before writing the next email.
Frequently asked questions
What is a normal markup?
It depends on the client, the vendor chain and the engagement type. Calculate your own cost and the rate the requirement supports.