The Power of Words: How to Avoid Using “Help” When Charging for a Service

Introduction

Using the word help when charging for a service or a product can be problematic for several reasons. First, it can imply that the service or product is not worth paying for, or that the customers or clients are doing a favour by buying it. This can undermine the value and benefits of the service or product, and make the customers or clients feel guilty or resentful. Second, it can create confusion about the nature and scope of the service or product, and the expectations and responsibilities of both parties. This can lead to misunderstandings, disputes, or dissatisfaction. Third, it can convey a lack of confidence, professionalism, or expertise in the service or product, and the people who provide it. This can damage the credibility, reputation, and trust of the professionals, and affect their ability to attract and retain customers or clients.

Therefore, it is important to choose the right words to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product, and how it can solve the problems or meet the needs of the customers or clients. Instead of using the word help, which can be vague and passive, it is better to use words that are specific and active, such as provide, offer, deliver, create, design, implement, etc. These words can highlight the features and advantages of the service or product, and the skills and qualifications of the professionals. They can also show respect and appreciation for the customers or clients, and their time and money.

The main points of the article are:

• Using the word help when charging for a service or a product can be misleading, confusing, or demeaning for the customers or clients, and can reduce the value and benefits of the service or product.
• Choosing the right words to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product can enhance the credibility, reputation, and trust of the professionals, and their relationship with the customers or clients.
• Words that are specific and active, such as provide, offer, deliver, create, design, implement, etc., can better convey the value and benefits of the service or product, and the professionalism and expertise of the people who provide it.

The problem of using the word help when charging for a service or a product

Using the word help when charging for a service or a product can have negative consequences for both the professionals and their customers or clients. The word help can imply different meanings and emotions, depending on the context and the tone of the communication. However, in general, using the word help can suggest that the service or product is not a mutually beneficial exchange of value and expertise, but rather a favor, a charity, or a burden.

When a professional uses the word help to describe their service or product, they may unintentionally convey that they are doing something extra or generous for their customers or clients, without expecting anything in return. This can make the customers or clients feel like they are receiving a gift or a donation, rather than paying for a solution or a benefit. For example, a graphic designer who says “I can help you with your logo design for $500” may make their client feel like they are getting a bargain or a freebie, rather than a professional service that reflects the designer’s skills, experience, and creativity.

Alternatively, using the word help can also imply that the service or product is a burden or a hassle for the professional, and that they are reluctantly agreeing to do it for the sake of the customers or clients. This can make the customers or clients feel like they are imposing or bothering the professional, rather than hiring them for a job that they are qualified and willing to do. For example, a plumber who says “I can help you fix your leaky faucet, but it will cost you $200” may make their customer feel like they are asking for a favor or a nuisance, rather than a necessary and valuable service that requires the plumber’s expertise, tools, and time.

Using the word help can also undermine the professionalism, confidence, and authority of the service or product provider, and make them appear needy, desperate, or incompetent. When a professional uses the word help, they may unintentionally signal that they are not confident or proud of their service or product, and that they are seeking validation or approval from their customers or clients. This can make the customers or clients doubt the quality and reliability of the service or product, and question the credibility and reputation of the professional. For example, a lawyer who says “I can help you with your legal case, but I need a good review from you” may make their client feel like they are dealing with an insecure or inexperienced lawyer, rather than a competent and trustworthy one.

Moreover, using the word help can also create unrealistic expectations, dissatisfaction, or resentment among the customers or clients, and make them feel obligated, pressured, or exploited. When a professional uses the word help, they may unintentionally set up a vague or ambiguous scope and outcome for their service or product, and leave room for misunderstanding or disagreement with their customers or clients. This can lead to confusion, conflict, or disappointment, and damage the relationship between the professional and their customers or clients. For example, a coach who says “I can help you achieve your goals, but you have to do the work” may make their client feel like they are not getting enough guidance or support, rather than a clear and realistic plan and accountability.

Some examples of how using the word help can backfire or damage the relationship between the professionals and their customers or clients are:

• A photographer who says “I can help you take some photos for your website, but you have to pay for the prints and the editing” may make their customer feel like they are being charged for hidden or extra costs, rather than a transparent and fair price.
• A consultant who says “I can help you improve your business strategy, but you have to follow my advice exactly” may make their client feel like they are being dictated or controlled, rather than a collaborative and flexible partner.
• A therapist who says “I can help you overcome your anxiety, but you have to trust me completely” may make their client feel like they are being manipulated or coerced, rather than a respected and empowered individual.

Therefore, it is important to avoid using the word help when charging for a service or a product, and instead use words that are specific, active, and positive, such as provide, offer, deliver, create, design, implement, etc. These words can better communicate the value and benefits of the service or product, and the professionalism and expertise of the people who provide it. They can also show respect and appreciation for the customers or clients, and their time and money.

The importance of choosing the right words to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product

Choosing the right words to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product is crucial for attracting, engaging, and converting customers or clients. The right words can convey the following aspects of the service or product:

• How it can solve the problems, needs, or desires of the customers or clients. The right words can show how the service or product can address the pain points, challenges, or goals of the target audience, and how it can make their lives easier, better, or happier. For example, a fitness app that says “Lose weight, get fit, and feel great with our personalized workouts and nutrition plans” can appeal to the customers or clients who want to improve their health and well-being.
• How it can differentiate itself from the competitors. The right words can highlight the unique features, advantages, or benefits of the service or product, and how it can offer more value, quality, or convenience than the alternatives. For example, a cloud storage service that says “Store, access, and share your files securely and easily with our unlimited and affordable plans” can stand out from the other cloud storage services that may have limited storage, higher prices, or lower security.
• How it can demonstrate the professionalism, confidence, and authority of the service or product provider. The right words can showcase the skills, experience, and expertise of the people who provide the service or product, and how they can deliver on their promises, meet the expectations, and exceed the standards of the customers or clients. For example, a web design agency that says “We create stunning, responsive, and user-friendly websites that drive traffic, conversions, and sales for your business” can impress the customers or clients with their portfolio, testimonials, and results.

Choosing the right words can also create positive emotions and perceptions among the customers or clients, and make them feel respected, appreciated, or empowered. The right words can do the following:

• Create realistic expectations, satisfaction, or gratitude. The right words can set clear and honest expectations for the customers or clients, and avoid overpromising or underdelivering. The right words can also express appreciation and gratitude for the customers or clients, and acknowledge their feedback, loyalty, or referrals. For example, a software company that says “Thank you for choosing our software. We value your opinion and would love to hear from you. Please take a few minutes to complete this survey and let us know how we can improve our service” can show that they care about the customers or clients and their satisfaction.
• Make them feel respected, appreciated, or empowered. The right words can show respect and appreciation for the customers or clients, and their time, money, and preferences. The right words can also empower the customers or clients to make informed and confident decisions, and to take action on their goals or needs. For example, a coaching service that says “You have the potential to achieve anything you want. We are here to support you, guide you, and inspire you. Book a free consultation today and discover how we can help you reach your full potential” can motivate the customers or clients to take the next step and sign up for the service.

Some examples of how choosing the right words can enhance or improve the relationship between the professionals and their customers or clients are:

• A travel agency that says “We know how important your vacation is to you. That’s why we offer personalized and flexible travel packages that suit your budget, preferences, and schedule. Whether you want to explore exotic destinations, relax on the beach, or enjoy the culture and cuisine, we have the perfect package for you. Contact us today and let us plan your dream vacation” can attract and retain customers or clients who are looking for a customized and hassle-free travel experience.
• A cleaning service that says “We understand how busy you are and how much you value your time. That’s why we offer reliable, efficient, and affordable cleaning services that will make your home sparkle. We use eco-friendly products, trained and background-checked staff, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. You can book online in minutes, choose your preferred date and time, and pay securely online. No contracts, no hidden fees, no worries. Just sit back and enjoy your clean home” can appeal to and satisfy customers or clients who are looking for a convenient and trustworthy cleaning service.
• A bakery that says “We are passionate about baking delicious, fresh, and beautiful cakes, cookies, and pastries for your special occasions. We use only the finest ingredients, locally sourced and organic whenever possible. We cater to your dietary needs and preferences, whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or allergic to nuts. We also offer custom designs and flavors, so you can have the cake of your dreams. Order online or visit our store and taste the difference” can entice and delight customers or clients who are looking for a quality and personalized bakery service.

The alternative words that can be used instead of help

The word help can have different connotations and implications, depending on the context, tone, and purpose of the communication. Sometimes, using the word help can be appropriate and effective, such as when asking for or offering assistance, support, or guidance. However, sometimes, using the word help can be inappropriate or ineffective, such as when charging for or promoting a service or a product. In such cases, it is better to choose alternative words that can communicate the value and benefits of the service or product more clearly and convincingly.

Some alternative words that can be used instead of help are:

• Provide: This word means to supply or furnish something that is needed or desired. It can be used to describe the service or product as a solution or a benefit that meets the needs or wants of the customers or clients. It can also show the professionalism and expertise of the service or product provider, and their ability to deliver what they promise. For example, a tutor who says “I provide math tutoring services for students of all levels” can convey that they have the skills and qualifications to teach math effectively, and that they can cater to the different learning needs and goals of the students.
• Offer: This word means to present or propose something for acceptance or rejection. It can be used to describe the service or product as an opportunity or an option that the customers or clients can choose or consider. It can also show the respect and appreciation of the service or product provider, and their willingness to accommodate the preferences or requests of the customers or clients. For example, a hairstylist who says “I offer a range of hair services, from cuts and colours to treatments and extensions” can convey that they have a variety of skills and services to suit the different tastes and styles of the customers, and that they are open to suggestions and feedback.
• Deliver: This word means to bring or send something to a destination or a recipient. It can be used to describe the service or product as a result or an outcome that the customers or clients can expect or receive. It can also show the reliability and efficiency of the service or product provider, and their ability to meet the expectations and standards of the customers or clients. For example, a caterer who says “I deliver fresh, delicious, and affordable food for any occasion” can convey that they have the quality and value to satisfy the different needs and budgets of the customers, and that they can provide the food on time and as ordered.
• Create: This word means to make or produce something new or original. It can be used to describe the service or product as a creation or an innovation that the customers or clients can enjoy or admire. It can also show the creativity and uniqueness of the service or product provider, and their ability to impress and delight the customers or clients. For example, a florist who says “I create beautiful, custom-made floral arrangements for any event” can convey that they have the talent and vision to design and craft stunning and personalized flowers for the different occasions and themes of the customers, and that they can make the event more memorable and special.
• Design: This word means to plan or conceive something with a specific purpose or intention. It can be used to describe the service or product as a design or a plan that the customers or clients can use or follow. It can also show the strategy and logic of the service or product provider, and their ability to solve and optimize the problems or needs of the customers or clients. For example, a web developer who says “I design user-friendly, responsive, and secure websites for your business” can convey that they have the knowledge and skills to build and maintain websites that are easy to use, adapt to different devices, and protect the data and privacy of the customers, and that they can help the business grow and succeed.
• Implement: This word means to put something into effect or action. It can be used to describe the service or product as an implementation or an execution that the customers or clients can rely on or benefit from. It can also show the action and performance of the service or product provider, and their ability to achieve and deliver the goals or objectives of the customers or clients. For example, a marketing consultant who says “I implement effective and measurable marketing strategies for your brand” can convey that they have the experience and tools to develop and apply marketing techniques that are relevant and impactful for the brand, and that they can track and report the results and outcomes of the marketing campaigns.

Conclusion

Using the right words to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product is essential for attracting, engaging, and converting customers or clients. In this article, we have discussed why using the word help can be problematic, and what alternative words can be used instead. We have also explained how to communicate the value and benefits of the service or product in terms of features, benefits, and needs, and how to create positive emotions and perceptions among the customers or clients. By choosing the right words, you can convey the essence of your brand, differentiate yourself from the competitors, demonstrate your professionalism and expertise, and create realistic expectations and satisfaction. You can also make your customers or clients feel respected, appreciated, and empowered, and build a lasting and loyal relationship with them.

To apply the concepts in this article, we suggest that you review your current communication materials, such as your website, brochures, emails, or social media posts, and identify where you can improve your word choice and value communication. You can also conduct surveys, interviews, or focus groups with your existing or potential customers or clients, and ask them what words or phrases resonate with them, and what value and benefits they are looking for in your service or product. You can also test different versions of your communication materials, and measure the response and feedback from your audience.

Some questions or challenges that remain to be explored are how to adapt your word choice and value communication to different cultures, languages, and contexts, and how to keep up with the changing needs and preferences of your customers or clients. You can also research how other successful brands or professionals communicate their value and benefits, and learn from their best practices and examples.

We hope that this article has helped you understand the importance and the art of using the right words to communicate the value and benefits of your service or product, and how it can benefit both you and your customers or clients. We encourage you to apply the concepts and tips in this article, and see the results for yourself. Remember, words matter, and choosing the right ones can make all the difference.