my partners business is different, wedding business,but similar issues. For each client she needs to make up a detailed quote, 3 - 4 pages with research into each item. often the clients will come to her with anothers quote, or people in the industry will say that they had a client show them what looks to be like one of her quotes. She spends a bit of effort on the quotes, more than most, so quite easily recognised in our smallish city.
Her strategy is to try and spot the timewasters/bargainers early and quote higher, but spend less effort on details. If the initial take was wrong, and the client looks to be better than expected, then adjustments are made. She also needs to have 1 - 3 appointments with them to sort out details.
When it boils down to it, it is you that has to have a strategy and stick to it. You have to try and not leave details up in the air, and try and limit where possible quoting all different prices for different people and the same work. We all like to help out people, and while fixing the broken connector on a Yr12 student for $10 might seem charitable, you will never see them again, and there are dozens lined up at the door.
I also don't agree with 1 corporate job paying 3 months worth of expenses(sorry Einstein9 maybe I haven't been in the business long enough, or my business isn't in same direction...I am not judging), just doesn't seem right. In these cases, sure, charge every dime the job is worth, but adding extra just because it is gov, finance industry or edu? dunno about that.
often time wasting can be sorted out to acceptable levels by process.. in the same vein as Super Nanny.. naught kids - fix the parents, or Ceaser Milan - bad dogs? fix the owners..
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if you come up with something that works, then it would be beneficial if you shared here!
good luck