I agree with you totally,
The conception of a window cleaner is not of high regard,
and thus seems to affect the confidence of one who tries to put the price at a rate which would make him/her a reasonable income.
I found when i went out canvassing during my first two weeks , that the customer felt my unease and acted upon it, telling me oh thats to expensive or well, we will give you a go to see if you are any good etc.
Now i use a more business approach and TELL them the rate with confidence, and i usually get the job,
because i am trying to build a business and treat it as a business, i am the one now who feels insulted when they tell me it should be cheaper,
I tell them i am here to stay, that i am insured, professional, local and do a first class job , including frames and sills.
AND i warn them about any unruly window cleaners charging peanuts as they are more likely to be on the dole,
it seems to be getting home and my prices are all in the bracket for my area, and even creeping above.
So yes i think you are right, its down to the window cleaner to be professional, business minded, in a manner that comes across to the customer as such.
Otherwise we will always be labelled.
Gary.