Pricing Has Changed. Has Your Strategy?

Whether you are starting a staffing firm, reviewing an existing client agreement, or preparing to enter a new market, the same question eventually comes up:

What should you charge?

The answer is more complex than simply adding a standard markup to a worker’s pay rate – and it’s more complex than it was 3-5 years ago.

This guide will help you:

  • Understand the building blocks of staffing pricing
  • Calculate markup and gross margin correctly
  • Account for statutory and operating expenses
  • Evaluate the effect of payment terms
  • Avoid common pricing mistakes
  • Adjust your approach for different clients and assignments
  • Have more effective conversations with price-sensitive buyers
  • Protect cash flow while pursuing growth

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Staffing Pricing in 2026

Pricing Definitions

Components of Pricing

Pricing Example

Common Pricing Mistakes

Pricing Q&A

Profitability Calculator Tool

Pricing Video Explainer