Should I… Create Tiered Pricing?

So, you’re thinking about adding tiered pricing.

I get it.

Years ago, I thought the same thing. “I’ll have a starter offer, a mid-range, and a VIP tier — genius!

Everyone will find a fit, I’ll make more money, and no one will ever say ‘too expensive’ again!”

...and wow, did I learn the hard way.

Here’s what no one tells you:

When I first tried this, I thought I was being inclusive.

But what actually happened?

• Clients got overwhelmed choosing (“Which one is right for me?”)

• I spent more time clarifying differences than actually delivering value

• I attracted people looking for “just the basics,” who took the most hand-holding and gave the least commitment

I thought I was creating an elegant ladder.

What I really built?

A complicated maze.

What are you really asking?

When people ask about tiers, they’re not really asking if they should offer choices.

They’re usually saying:

👉 “I’m scared to name my price and stand behind it.”

👉 “I want to avoid rejection.”

👉 “What if people can’t afford me?”

👉 “How can I serve more people without losing my value?”

👉 “How can I make more sales without feeling pushy?”

I get it.

I’ve been there too.

But the truth?

Offering a cheaper tier doesn’t solve pricing fear — it just hides it for a while.

What is tiered pricing really?

On paper, it’s giving people options. Bronze, Silver, Gold. Starter, Premium, All-Access.

In reality, it’s creating three different customer experiences — with different expectations, boundaries, and energy demands.

And as a solopreneur?

That’s a lot to hold.

The reality I wish someone told me sooner

People think tiered pricing magically increases revenue and accessibility.

But it only works if:

✔️ You already have a strong, validated main offer that sells consistently

✔️ You deeply understand your audience’s readiness levels

✔️ You have actual capacity (not imaginary “future you” capacity)

✔️ You have systems and capacity to handle extra operational and delivery complexity

✔️ You use tiers to intentionally guide clients into deeper work- not to avoid objections or make sales from fear

When I introduced tiers years ago, I thought it would simplify everything.

“People can pick what fits, and it’ll all run smoothly!”

What actually happened?

It diversified my focus.

I felt my energy pulled in multiple directions, constantly compartmentalizing my work based on what they paid instead confidently standing behind one clear offer.

What I thought would make my business more accessible actually made it more scattered.

Does that mean it never works? Not at all.

When it’s done with clarity, strong systems, and a true understanding of your audience, tiered pricing can be a beautiful, strategic way to deepen client relationships and serve different readiness levels.

Pros

✅ Helps guide clients into deeper work when they’re ready

✅ Can meet different stages of readiness and commitment without building entirely new offers

✅ Creates natural upsell paths for those who want more support or faster results

✅ Can increase overall revenue and retention when done intentionally

Cons

❌ Adds extra complexity in delivery, operations, and communication (even if it looks “simple” on paper)

❌ Risks diluting your core message and creating confusion about what people really need

❌ Often attracts people looking for the lowest price — who might need the most support and move the slowest

❌ Requires stronger boundaries and clarity so each tier stays aligned and doesn’t drain you

Bottom line?

If you’re thinking about tiers because you want to avoid hearing “no,” don’t do it.

If you’re doing it to genuinely guide people on a clear, intentional journey — and you have the systems and energy to back it up — then sure, it can be great.

Most importantly: One clear, bold, honest offer beats three watered-down versions every single time.

Get that core offer strong first. Build demand and trust. Then (and only then) consider layering in tiers.

I’ll leave you with this:

I’ve spent years helping solopreneurs untangle messy offers and rebuild them into powerful, single-point solutions. I promise — simplicity scales.

PS: If you’re sick of second-guessing your offer or slicing it up in hopes of pleasing everyone, let’s untangle it together.

[Book a 20-minute strategy call here.]

The lady who’d rather have one unforgettable dish than a half-baked buffet,

Tanya MFK

I'm Tanya MFK, because it's easier than saying and spelling my whole name.

I've been developing business strategies for more than 22 years for Fortune 500 companies, Grammy nominated artists, and small business owners.

I'm also the Founder of Modern Business Mastery, where we ditch the outdated ways of business including the hustle and gimmicks. We simplify and systematize the solopreneur journey to create space for life, joy, and success NOW.

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