One of the biggest questions service providers ask is wether to list their prices on their website or social media.
Some say yes; it builds trust. Others say no; it scares clients away.
If you’ve wondered if showing your rates upfront will help or hurt your business, this article is for you. Let’s examine both sides, provide examples, and help you make the best decision for your brand, audience, and goals.
When Listing Prices Online Helps
It Builds Trust
In today’s world, transparency is important. Clients want to know what to expect, not just in results but in cost.
By showing your prices, you’re telling potential clients:
I’m confident in what I offer, and I don’t play games.
It Filters Out Low-Budget Leads
Have you ever spent hours chatting with someone who disappeared as soon as you mentioned your price?
Public pricing helps pre-qualify leads, so you only get inquiries from people who are ready or almost ready to invest.
It Saves You Time
If you’re spending time explaining your pricing in every message or call, you’re wasting energy that could be used elsewhere.
Listing your packages online, even as a starting point, allows serious clients to approach you with clarity.
It Works Great for Standardized Services
If your service has a defined scope, such as:
- A one-page website
- A logo design package
- A coaching session
Listing a clear price gives potential clients instant answers.
Pro tip: Pair your price with a clear breakdown of value. Don’t just say “15 000 KES” — explain what they’re getting for that price.
When Listing Prices Online Might Hurt
Your Services Are Fully Customized
If every project is different, for example, if you build large websites or offer strategy consults, listing a flat price might confuse or limit you.
Instead, you could say:
Projects typically start at KES 25,000, but every proposal is custom based on your goals.
This keeps the door open while still providing a ballpark figure.
Your Audience Is Very Price-Sensitive
In some markets, especially where clients aren’t used to paying for digital services, upfront pricing can scare off curious leads.
In this case, leading with value first, such as a consultation, case study, or testimonial, might warm them up before discussing price.
You Rely on Sales Conversations to Close
If your selling approach involves educating the client first, public pricing might cut the process short too early, especially if they don’t yet understand the full value.
The Middle Ground: Show Ranges or Starting Prices
Not ready to show exact numbers? Try this instead:
| Package | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Starter | 1-page landing page, 1 revision | From KES 5,000 |
| Growth | 3-page website, SEO, 2 revisions | KES 10,000 – 15,000 |
| Premium | 5+ pages, strategy call, support | Custom quote |
This provides a clear expectation without locking you into specifics.
Bonus: Use a call-to-action like “Need help choosing? Let’s talk.”
A Kenyan Reality: WhatsApp, DMs & Price Negotiations
Many Kenyan businesses operate through DMs or WhatsApp, where price haggling is common.
Clients often ask: “Ni how much?” before they even know what you’re offering.
In such cases, a well-presented price list or service catalog, even as a PDF or Google Doc, can:
- Make you look more professional
- Filter out unserious buyers
- Set the tone for respectful negotiations
Transparency is still rare here, so it can become your advantage.
So… Should You List Your Prices?
Ask yourself these three questions:
- Is your service standardized or highly customized?
If it’s standardized, list it. If it’s flexible, show a range or starting price.
- Do you want fewer leads, but higher quality ones?
Public pricing acts as a filter, not just a magnet.
- Are you confident in your value?
If yes, listing prices can make you look bold, not expensive.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s what works for most growing businesses:
- Show your value.
- Set expectations.
- Give your audience something to work with.
Whether it’s “Starting at 10 000 KES” or “Packages range from 5 000 KES to 20,000,” the key is clarity and confidence.