Priced myself out of a job—can I fix this?

[Chrys2017]

I was recently recommended for some freelance work by a contact within a large corporation. Confidentially she informed me that they were pretty desperate to find someone with my particular niche skills and that I should accordingly demand top rate. I did so (politely, of course) but then received a brush-off from the person doing the hiring and am now thinking their budget probably doesn't stretch. I'd really like to do the work and am now wishing I had quoted them my normal rate (which is about 1/3 less than top rate). Is there any way to tell them I'll actually work for less without looking like a fool/desperate? I haven't ever come across this before, so would appreciate some advice!

How long ago did you quote and how was it left? Did they just not respond to you? I think, depending on what was said in the last communication, I would follow up the quote asking what they think/whether they would like to go ahead/are they happy you have the skills required to do the job/would they like to see previous similar jobs etc. You could even ask if the price was ok if you genuinely think that this is what has put them off. I'm usually the other person in this scenario and if someone is way out on price I usually discount them, however if they follow up it shows me that they are keen (not in a desperate way) and I usually then have no qualms about telling them that the price is out of our budget. That then either opens up the table for negotiation or they say OK and walk away.

Thanks for the advice—I will send a follow-up today! The last communication from her was two weeks ago, along the lines of "Thanks for the quote; I'll be in touch if and when I need you."