Going above and beyond for clients isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the not-so-secret ingredient for building strong relationships, earning referrals, and confidently charging premium rates.
But let’s be real for a second: there’s a fine line between overdelivering and letting things spiral into scope creep. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “Sure, I can do that,” to a client’s extra requests and regretting it later, you know exactly what I’m talking about. So, let’s break down how to overdeliver the right way—and why it’s been such a game-changer in my business journey.
From $300 Logos to Strategy-Driven Brands
When I first launched On Brand Designs, I was charging $300 to $500 for logos. Back then, I didn’t fully grasp the value I brought to the table or how to package my skills in a way that served both my clients and my business.
Fast forward to today, and things look a little different. My rates reflect not just the deliverables but the thoughtfulness and strategy behind them. I’m no longer just “designing a logo”—I’m crafting brands with intention. My clients know they’re getting a partner who genuinely cares about their success. That’s the heart of overdelivering: giving your clients an experience that exceeds their expectations while staying true to your boundaries.
What Overdelivering Really Means
Here’s the thing: overdelivering isn’t about saying “yes” to every client request. That’s how you fall into the trap of scope creep. True overdelivering is about surprising your clients with thoughtful touches that elevate their experience—without adding hours of extra work.
For example, I’ll occasionally include a LinkedIn banner or business card design as a “bonus” when wrapping up a project. These small, unexpected extras don’t take much time, but they leave a big impression. Clients walk away feeling like they received incredible value, and that’s what keeps them coming back (and referring you to others!).
Overdelivering has completely shifted how I approach my business. Here’s why it’s worth it:
- Clients remember you. Those thoughtful extras make you stand out from the crowd.
- You build trust. Clients feel taken care of, which makes them more likely to refer you to others.
- You can charge more. When clients see the value you bring, they’re willing to invest at higher levels.
The key is to overdeliver on your terms. I decide what thoughtful touches make sense for the project and my workflow—not my clients.
Managing Scope Creep
Now, let’s address the not-so-fun side of overdelivering: scope creep. It’s real, and if left unchecked, it can drain your time, energy, and profits. Scope creep happens when clients start requesting things that weren’t included in your original agreement.
Here’s how I handle it: If a client asks for something outside the scope, like adding a blog with 40 posts to a website project, I gently remind them of what’s included in the contract and offer to add the extras as a paid add-on. It’s all about setting clear boundaries while maintaining a positive relationship.
What’s Next for Me in 2025
Looking ahead, I’m excited to introduce new ways to overdeliver, like monthly maintenance packages for my clients. These packages will help keep their websites fresh, their brands consistent, and their stress levels low. It’s about providing ongoing value while ensuring my business continues to grow sustainably.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that overdelivering doesn’t have to mean working harder or longer. Often, it’s about being intentional with the little things that make a big impact.
My Advice for Creative Entrepreneurs
If you’re a creative entrepreneur, here’s my advice: always aim to overdeliver—but do it in a way that aligns with your business and personal boundaries. Think about what small, impactful touches you can offer that will leave a lasting impression without leaving you burned out. And don’t be afraid to say no when something doesn’t fit within your scope.
At the end of the day, overdelivering is about creating meaningful client experiences, building trust, and positioning your business for long-term success. You’ve got this!
For more insights and to catch a glimpse of the results of my headshot, follow us at @onbranddesigns, @profitablebranddesigner, and @profitable.brand.couple for your daily dose of creativity and business insights.
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Here’s to your success, and remember — we’re in this together. 💼🎨✨
Until next time, keep designing and dreaming big!
~ Kim (and Jeremy)
